Magnus Carlsen Set to Play Norway Chess 2026 in New Oslo Venue

Magnus Carlsen, the 20-time world champion across classical, rapid, and blitz formats, has confirmed his participation in the upcoming Norway Chess tournament, putting to rest speculation about his potential absence. The event, scheduled from May 25 to June 5, will also see a historic relocation from Stavanger to Oslo.

Having won Norway Chess seven times in the past, Carlsen had raised doubts about participating this year due to his intention to gradually step back from classical chess. The announcement assures fans that the reigning world No. 1, fresh from a grand double at the World Rapid and Blitz Championships in Doha, will defend his title.

The tournament traditionally attracts top global talent, and this year’s edition is expected to feature strong Indian representation. Last year, India’s D. Gukesh and Arjun Erigaisi competed in the Open section, while Koneru Humpy and R. Vaishali represented the Women’s section, with Gukesh and Humpy finishing third in their respective categories.

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Norway Chess founder Kjell Madland highlighted the strategic move to Oslo, calling the capital a “natural next step” to expand the tournament’s global reach. “Oslo is an international meeting place, offering the chance to engage a wider audience of spectators, partners, and new generations of chess enthusiasts,” said Benedicte Westre Skog, COO of Norway Chess.

The relocation marks a new chapter for the tournament, which has been held in Stavanger since its inception in 2013. Organisers also announced that the Norway Chess Women tournament and the participant line-ups for both categories will be revealed in the coming weeks, building anticipation for a landmark chess season.

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