Indian Grandmaster R. Praggnanandhaa produced another impressive display to finish the rapid section of the SuperUnited Rapid & Blitz Croatia tournament as joint leader, putting himself in prime position for the title ahead of the decisive blitz rounds.
Fresh from his title-winning run at Norway Chess, Praggnanandhaa continued his rich vein of form by ending the nine-round rapid segment level on points with France’s Alireza Firouzja. The Indian star showed remarkable consistency, collecting crucial victories while avoiding costly defeats against a world-class field.
Praggnanandhaa’s composed approach and tactical precision enabled him to stay among the frontrunners throughout the event. His ability to convert favourable positions and hold firm in difficult games ensured he remained firmly in contention heading into the blitz phase, where each player faces 18 rounds.
World champion D. Gukesh also remained in the mix after an improved showing during the latter stages of the rapid competition. After a slow start, the Chennai youngster fought back with important wins to keep himself within striking distance of the leaders before the tournament shifts to the faster time control.
Firouzja matched Praggnanandhaa’s tally with a strong finish, setting up an intriguing battle for the title in the blitz section, where consistency and speed will prove decisive.
The SuperUnited Rapid & Blitz Croatia is the third leg of the 2026 Grand Chess Tour, with the overall champion determined by the combined scores from the rapid and blitz formats. With 18 blitz rounds still to be played, the title race remains wide open, and Praggnanandhaa will be aiming to convert his strong position into another prestigious international triumph.
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