Garry Kasparov has said that his criticism of World Champion Gukesh Dommaraju "still stands", but he still gives Gukesh slightly better chances in the upcoming World Championship match against Javokhir Sindarov. The former World Champion spoke at a press conference in Antwerp on 21 October 2026, ahead of a simultaneous exhibition at the KMSKA museum, as reported by Sport in Antwerpen.
"That criticism still stands"
Kasparov criticised Gukesh's form since winning the 2024 World Championship.
"Like Magnus Carlsen, I was fiercely critical of Gukesh. And that criticism still stands," Kasparov said. He added that Gukesh "didn't make a good impression at the Olympiad", but that a match against a single opponent is "completely different".
Why he still gives Gukesh the edge
"As far as I can judge, Sindarov provides more entertainment, but experience is important. And Gukesh has that. You can hardly beat Gukesh. That is why I give him slightly more chances," said Kasparov. "It is not important how long you prepare for a match. Experience is usually the deciding factor."
He described Gukesh as a more defensive player, comparing him to "a tennis player who does not come off the baseline". But he left the door open for Sindarov: "You never know. If Sindarov takes the lead, he might be able to beat him."
Carlsen still the strongest
Kasparov also said Magnus Carlsen is still the best player in the world in his eyes. Years ago that was beyond doubt, he said, but given his lifestyle and the number of tournaments he plays, others have emerged. "If you consider everything together, he is still the strongest player."
He also welcomed the rise of young players: "I am pleased, however, that young players are now reaching the top." At the same time, he noted that title matches are no longer played between the world number one and number two, as his 1986 match against Karpov was.
