Indian chess continues to rise on the world stage, and a new milestone has just been achieved. Rameshbabu Vaishali, one of India’s leading young grandmasters, has made history by winning the FIDE Women’s Candidates Tournament 2026. This prestigious event decides who will challenge the reigning world champion for the Women’s World Chess Championship. With this victory, R Vaishali becomes the first Indian woman ever to win the Candidates, marking a major moment not only for her career but also for Indian women’s chess. The achievement places her among the top contenders in global chess and brings India one step closer to another world title.
R Vaishali creates history in world chess
Indian grandmaster Rameshbabu Vaishali won the FIDE Women’s Candidates Tournament 2026, becoming the first Indian woman to claim the title. The tournament concluded in Cyprus, where Vaishali finished first with 8.5 points from 14 rounds, securing the top spot after a strong final-round victory against Russian grandmaster Kateryna Lagno.
By winning the Candidates, Vaishali has earned the right to challenge China’s reigning world champion Ju Wenjun in the Women’s World Chess Championship match scheduled later in 2026. The 24-year-old from Chennai, India, entered the tournament as one of the lower-rated players but delivered a consistent performance across 14 rounds to finish half a point ahead of her closest rivals. Her victory marks a significant milestone for Indian chess and highlights the growing strength of India’s new generation of players.
What is the FIDE Women’s Candidates Tournament?
The FIDE Women’s Candidates Tournament is one of the most important competitions in women’s chess. It is organised by the International Chess Federation (FIDE) to decide who will challenge the reigning Women’s World Chess Champion. Eight of the world’s best players compete in a multi-round tournament. The winner earns the right to play the Women’s World Championship match, where the world title is decided.
After winning the Candidates Tournament, Vaishali will now face Ju Wenjun of China, the current Women’s World Chess Champion, in the Women’s World Chess Championship match later in 2026. If she wins the match, Vaishali could become India’s next world chess champion, adding another historic chapter to the country’s growing chess legacy.
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