The title of the FIDE Chess World Cup will now be decided in tiebreakers on Wednesday after Wei Yi and Javokhir Sindarov wrapped up their second classical game in quick fashion in Goa on Tuesday. With both classical encounters ending in draws, the final remains locked at 1-1.
Unlike Monday’s opener—where Chinese Grandmaster Wei Yi briefly held chances—the second game was stripped of drama early. Both players appeared keen to cancel each other out, with knights traded by move seven and queens off the board by the tenth. By move 22, the finalists had reached a near-symmetrical position, each holding a bishop and six pawns.
The position was already dead equal, but regulations required a minimum of 30 moves before a draw could be agreed, which the players dutifully completed before splitting the point.
Both Yi and Sindarov are aiming for their maiden World Cup title, and the crown will now be decided in rapid tiebreaks beginning Wednesday. Wei Yi carries a slight psychological edge, having beaten Uzbekistan’s Sindarov in their Asian Games league clash in 2023.
Meanwhile, Andrey Esipenko stole the spotlight on a dramatic day in Goa, delivering a near-flawless performance to overpower Nodirbek Yakubboev and clinch third place. The victory not only showcased the Russian GM’s sharp form but also secured him a coveted berth in the 2026 Candidates Tournament, adding weight to what was arguably one of his strongest outings of the event.
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