Reykjavik, February 16: GM Magnus Carlsen added another crown to his legendary career by winning the 2026 FIDE Freestyle Chess World Championship Final. He defeated GM Fabiano Caruana 2.5-1.5 in a thrilling match that featured one of the tournament’s most dramatic turnarounds.
Carlsen’s Incredible Comeback
Carlsen survived a dead-lost position in game three before turning the tables on Caruana to secure victory. That single win proved decisive, as the other games ended in draws.
The final game was a nervous affair, but Carlsen held firm to clinch the match. With this triumph, he now holds the Rapid, Blitz, and Freestyle titles, bringing his career tally to 21 world championships.
Abdusattorov Secures Third Place
GM Nodirbek Abdusattorov claimed third place after defeating GM Vincent Keymer 2.5-1.5. Missed opportunities marked the match for the German star, but Abdusattorov’s single win was enough to secure the bronze medal.
According to Chess.com, Abdusattorov’s victory highlights his growing reputation as one of the most consistent young players in the freestyle format.
Other Results and Women’s Championship Spot
GM Hans Niemann overpowered GM Arjun Erigaisi 2-0 to finish fifth, while GM Levon Aronian took seventh place despite missing a mate-in-one in a wild armageddon decider against GM Javokhir Sindarov.
In the exhibition match, GM Bibisara Assaubayeva defeated GM Alexandra Kosteniuk 2.5-1.5, earning her place in the upcoming Women’s FIDE Freestyle Chess World Championship.
The 2026 final showcased the unpredictability and excitement of freestyle chess, with Carlsen once again proving his resilience and dominance on the world stage.
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