Fans of the traditional classical chess time control can rest easy—GM Magnus Carlsen, the world’s number-one player, will play the longer game this year.
Carlsen, who has repeatedly said he’s growing bored of the format, is the first player to publicly confirm his participation in Norway Chess 2026.
The remaining participants will be announced in the coming weeks, along with the line-up for Norway Chess Women.
Magnus Carlsen has won Norway Chess seven times
Photo: Norway Chess.
Norway Chess is, of course, very much Carlsen’s home tournament. It started in 2013, the year Carlsen won his first World Championship and chess exploded in the country.
In the 13 years Norway Chess has run, Carlsen has taken part in every edition and won it seven times. The tournament is an undoubted highlight on the international chess calendar and Carlsen is a huge attraction.
The 14th edition from May 25 to June 5 will be different, however, for two big reasons.
Firstly, the event is moving from its home in Stavanger on Norway’s south-west coast to the capital Oslo marking a new era in its history. The impressive Deichman Bjørvika, Norway’s oldest and largest public library, will serve as the main venue.
Deichman was founded in 1785 and is Norway’s oldest and largest public library.
Photo: Norway Chess.
Norway Chess, which has brought many innovations to elite-level chess, will also take on greater significance.
The tournament organisers are now part of the chess establishment teaming up with FIDE to deliver the new Carlsen-approved Total Chess Championship announced in partnership last year.
Kjell Madland, founder and CEO of Norway Chess, said: “Norway Chess would never have become the event it is today without the cross-party po
“We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the City of Stavanger, which has stood by us all the way—especially in the development of Norway Chess Women, a pioneering women’s tournament with equal prize conditions.
“We also want to thank our local sponsors and the incredible volunteers. Together you have written a chapter of Norwegian sporting history.”