World champion says his “job is to play chess” ahead of two scheduled clashes with Carlsen; Haaland investment and Rouda Al Serkal’s recent participation add Gulf relevance to elite tournament

Oslo, May 25: As the curtains rise on Norway Chess 2026 in Oslo today, much of the spotlight will fall on the simmering rivalry between reigning world champion D Gukesh and home favourite Magnus Carlsen — a contest that has already added fresh drama to one of chess’ most prestigious events.

Players gather ahead of the opening ceremony of the 2026 edition of Norway Chess at Deichman Bjørvika in Oslo on Monday. The world’s top men and women players will compete in the tournament from May 2

Tournament organisers confirmed on Sunday the dates Gukesh and former world champion Carlsen will twice meet during the tournament — first in Round 4 on May 28 and again in Round 10 on June 5.

The anticipation stems from last year’s dramatic encounter when Carlsen famously banged the table in frustration after losing to the Indian teenager.

Magnus Carlsen and reigning world champion Gukesh Dommaraju during the Norway Chess 2026 pre-tournament press conference at Thon Hotel Opera in Oslo on Sunday evening

Asked ahead of this year’s event whether he expected another explosive reaction from the Norwegian icon, Gukesh smiled before offering a measured response.

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