Wesley So Takes the Lead as Carlsen Triumphs Over Firouzja in Norway Chess

In the latest round of Norway Chess, Wesley So has taken the lead after defeating Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa, while Magnus Carlsen secured a crucial win against Alireza Firouzja. In the women's tournament, Bibisara Assaubayeva has claimed sole leadership following a tense round. The competition remains fierce as players vie for top positions in both sections. Read on for detailed insights into the matches and standings.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 1, 2026, 10:25 IST

Wesley So Takes Lead as Carlsen Defeats Firouzja

In a pivotal match at the ongoing Norway Chess tournament, World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen achieved a significant victory against the tournament leader, Alireza Firouzja. Playing with the white pieces, Carlsen applied consistent pressure throughout a tense strategic encounter, ultimately converting his advantage in the endgame. This win not only narrows the standings at the top but also marks Firouzja's first classical loss of the event.

Meanwhile, Wesley So secured a vital win against Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa in a challenging match. So navigated the complexities with skill, ultimately converting his advantage in the endgame to earn full points. This victory has propelled the American grandmaster to the top of the leaderboard.

In another notable result, Vincent Keymer triumphed over reigning World Champion D Gukesh, maintaining control for most of the game and capitalizing on his opportunities to achieve a significant win.

After round six, Wesley So leads the standings in Norway Chess, with Alireza Firouzja closely trailing as the competition for first place remains intense.

Assaubayeva Takes Sole Lead in Women's Tournament

In the women's division, Bibisara Assaubayeva has claimed sole leadership at Norway Chess Women.

The women's tournament featured another gripping round in Oslo, showcasing one decisive classical result and two Armageddon deciders.

Reigning Women's World Champion Ju Wenjun secured the only classical victory of the day, overcoming Divya Deshmukh in a hard-fought match. Ju steadily improved her position and converted her advantage in the endgame for a crucial win.

Bibisara Assaubayeva and Humpy Koneru played to a closely contested classical draw, but Assaubayeva emerged victorious in the Armageddon tiebreak, earning extra points and reclaiming sole leadership.

In another balanced match, Anna Muzychuk and Zhu Jiner ended in a draw in classical play, with Zhu Jiner later winning the Armageddon game to gain additional points.

After six rounds, Assaubayeva leads the Norway Chess Women standings with 9.5 points, followed by Divya Deshmukh with 8.5 points. Ju Wenjun and Anna Muzychuk are tied for third place, each with 8 points.