Can 10-year-old Aarit Kapil become India's youngest International Master?

by Rasika Ratnaparkhi - 28/04/2026

Ten-year-old Aarit Kapil secured his first International Master norm at the Menorca Open 2026. He scored 5/9 and performed at a rating of 2453. Along the way, he defeated a Grandmaster and an International Master, while also holding another Grandmaster and two International Masters to draws. He made a breakthrough performance against strong opposition in the tournament. Aarit is the same boy who once held Magnus Carlsen to a draw in an online game. The question is: Can Aarit break Pragg's record and become India's youngest International Master? Photo: Shahid Ahmed

Aarit Kapil secured first IM norm

10-year-old from New Delhi, Aarit Kapil, secured his first International Master norm. | Photo: Shahid Ahmed

Indian chess prodigy Aarit Kapil recently secured his first International Master norm at the Menorca Open 2026. He started the tournament with three wins, including two impressive victories against stronger opponents, GM Kazybek Nogerbek and IM Aldiyar Ansat. He also held GM Tiglon Bryce and IM Faustino Oro to a draw. Aarit analysed his incredible victories for us in an interview, sharing his thought process, key moments, and what it felt like to take down such experienced players at just 10 years old.

Aarit Kapil walks us through his two important victories at the Menorca Open. | Video: ChessBase India

A 10-year-old with a 2453 performance, fearless against titled players. | Photo: Chessresults

Available Games from Menorca

Aarit comes from New Delhi and he is regarded as one of the brightest young talents in India. He first gained global attention in 2025 when he held World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen to a draw in an online blitz game.

Recently, Aarit met Praggnanandhaa at IIT Delhi, where Pragg had come to play a series of handicap matches against players. The two spent some time interacting and analysing positions. Aarit must have gained valuable insights from one of the best in the game!