Show notes
The 2026 FIDE Candidates Tournament is almost here, and GM Jan Gustafsson joins the podcast to break down the entire field. As a leading opening theoretician who has worked on GM Magnus Carlsen’s World Championship team, Jan brings unique insight into this high-stakes event. Jan will be on site in Cyprus providing commentary alongside his longtime friend GM Peter Svidler. In this episode we go player by player discussing the contenders’ chances, from rising stars like Praggnanandhaa and Javokhir Sindarov to established veterans like Fabiano Caruana and Hikaru Nakamura. Jan shares insights on preparation, momentum, and who is most likely to win the Candidates and earn the right to challenge for the World Championship. We also discuss the Women’s Candidates Tournament, pop culture, and Jan’s latest projects.Episode Recorded on March 11, 2016You can buy tickets to the Chess in the Schools Poker/Chess Fundraiser here:https://secure.givelively.org/event/chess-in-the-schools-inc/chess-in-the-schools-3rd-annual-charity-poker-tournamentCheck out Jan’s Chessable courses here:Be sure to check out Chessiverse.com, and use code “Perpetual30” for a discount on premium features and IM John Bartholomew’s course. 6:36 Patreon mailbag question: Strategy for the Candidates tournamentMentioned: Kalshi FIDE Candidate’s Odds:https://kalshi.com/markets/kxchesscandidates/chess-candidates-champion/kxchesscandidates-2657:00- Patreon mailbag question: What would Jan like to keep as is in the chess world, and what would he like to see changed?Mentioned: Jeselnik book club:https://anthonyjeselnik.com/the-jeselnik-book-club1:06:00- Thanks to Jan for joining! Be sure to tune in to the FIDE YouTube channel for his Candidates coverage, sub to Janistan TV on Twitch, and check out his Chessable courses here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
