World champion D Gukesh had opted out of this year’s Grand Chess Tour, citing his poor form and a desire to come back stronger ahead of his title defence later this year. Here’s how Javokhir Sindarov, the Indian GM’s replacement in GCT 2026, reacted to the development.
Sindarov 'really surprised' with Gukesh opting out of Grand Chess Tour, looks forward to 'dream' GCT debut

