Sindarov Becomes Youngest FIDE World Cup Champion After Beating Wei Yi in Tiebreak

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Sports Desk

Uzbekistan’s rising chess star, 19-year-old Grandmaster Javokhir Sindarov, scripted a memorable chapter in Panaji by becoming the youngest-ever FIDE World Cup champion after defeating China’s GM Wei Yi in the second rapid game of the tiebreak. Sindarov, who entered the final against an undefeated Wei, held his ground with two quick draws in the classical games before banking on his rapid-play strength to secure the title.

The match saw Wei maintain his trademark solidity, including an early moment in the first tiebreak game where Sindarov briefly had a winning sequence in a bishop-pawn endgame but was unable to convert. However, the second rapid game marked a decisive shift. Sindarov began exerting sustained pressure on Wei’s kingside, gradually tightening the position until his queen pinned the Chinese grandmaster’s king, leaving no room for defense. Wei resigned after the 60th move, handing Sindarov not only the championship but also the honor of becoming the first Uzbek player to win the World Cup and the newly christened Viswanathan Anand Cup, along with a prize purse of $120,000.

Reflecting on his victory, Sindarov shared that his objective was to remain solid regardless of the rapid time control and seize opportunities when they came. He sensed his opponent’s lack of confidence in the second game, even offering a draw that Wei declined in pursuit of a win. With time running out for the Chinese grandmaster, Sindarov’s attack proved decisive. Calling the win just the start of his career, he expressed his ambition to reach the 2750 rating mark and set his sights on future world championships, including the Candidates 2026, for which this event awarded three spots. Sindarov also highlighted his fondness for playing in India, noting that the country has brought him significant success, from winning the Olympiad during his last visit to now claiming the World Cup. He predicted a fierce competitive future between India and Uzbekistan in international chess, as both nations continue to nurture strong emerging talent. This victory marks a new milestone for Sindarov and sets the stage for an exciting next chapter in his chess journey.