Carlsen's Not That Into Classical... But He Will Play Norway Chess

Fans of the traditional classical chess time control can rest easy; GM Magnus Carlsen, the world's number-one player, will play the longer game this year.

Carlsen, who has repeatedly said he's growing bored of the format and had his head turned by alternatives, is the first player to publicly confirm his participation in the classical Norway Chess 2026.

The remaining participants will be announced in the coming weeks, along with the line-up for Norway Chess Women.

Norway Chess is, of course, very much Carlsen's home tournament and his participation comes as no surprise. The tournament started in 2013, the year Carlsen won his first World Championship and chess exploded in the country.

In the 13 years since, Carlsen has taken part in every edition and won it seven times. The tournament is an undoubted highlight on the international chess calendar and Carlsen is a huge attraction.

The 14th edition from May 25 to June 5 will be different, however, for two big reasons.

Firstly, the event is moving from its home in Stavanger on Norway's south-west coast to the capital Oslo marking a new era in its history. The impressive Deichman Bjørvika, Norway's oldest and largest public library, will serve as the main venue.

Norway Chess will also take on greater significance.

The tournament organisers, who have brought many innovations to elite-level chess, are now part of the game's establishment teaming up with FIDE to deliver the new Carlsen-approved Total Chess Championship announced in partnership last year.

Kjell Madland, founder and CEO of Norway Chess, said: "Norway Chess would never have become the event it is today without the cross-party political support and the generous welcome we have received in Stavanger.

"We would like to extend our sincere thanks to the City of Stavanger, which has stood by us all the way—especially in the development of Norway Chess Women, a pioneering women’s tournament with equal prize conditions.

"We also want to thank our local sponsors and the incredible volunteers. Together you have written a chapter of Norwegian sporting history."

Benedicte Westre Skog, COO of Norway Chess, added: "We see great opportunities in establishing Norway Chess in the nation’s capital. Oslo is an international meeting place and gives us a unique opportunity to reach an even wider audience—among spectators, partners, and new generations of chess enthusiasts."

Staff at the new venue, Oslo's Deichman Bjørvika, also look forward to welcoming the world’s leading chess players.

"We are proud that Deichman Bjørvika will host Norway Chess 2026," Head Librarian Merete Lie said.

"The library is a venue for many activities and experiences, and we are now looking forward to filling the building with chess players, spectators, and curious visitors. We also hope many people take the opportunity to borrow a good chess book or two."