China’s No.1 grandmaster Wei Yi delivered a decisive blow to India’s campaign at the FIDE World Cup 2025, defeating Arjun Erigaisi in the rapid tie-breaks and advancing to the semifinals. The result ended India’s last remaining chance to secure a direct qualification spot for the 2026 Candidates Tournament.

Arjun’s Exit: A Heartbreaking Moment for Indian Fans

Arjun Erigaisi, India’s top seed in the tournament, was visibly emotional after the match. Despite showing remarkable form throughout the event, the rapid tie-break proved costly. His mother, Jyothi, who had been following the game through headphones, realized the outcome only when she saw her son walking off — a moment filled with silence and heartbreak.

Key reasons for Arjun’s loss:

• Wei Yi’s superior preparation in rapid format
• A few missed tactical opportunities by Arjun
• Pressure of tie-breaks at the quarter-final stage

Wei Yi: China’s Rising Power in Global Chess

Wei Yi, born in June 1999 in Jiangsu province, is widely recognized as China’s strongest active grandmaster today. His journey started at age five when chess was introduced at his school. From that point on, his rise was meteoric.

Highlights of Wei Yi’s career:

• Achieved Grandmaster title at just 13
• Entered China’s senior championship at a young age
• Consistently ranked among the world’s top 20 players since 2024
• Known for dynamic, attacking play and strong preparation

Wei has also been vocal about the need for stronger institutional support for chess in China, which makes his achievements even more significant.

What This Means for India’s Candidates Hopes

With Arjun out, India no longer has a contender in the 2025 World Cup. The top three finishers receive direct berths to the 2026 Candidates, making this loss especially impactful.

India now relies solely on R Praggnanandhaa, who is still in the running via the FIDE Circuit points route.

If Pragg manages a strong finish in upcoming events, he can still keep the Indian flag flying at the Candidates stage.

China’s Big Moment

China has never won a Chess World Cup title. With Wei Yi moving forward confidently, the country stands closer than ever to a historic achievement.

If Wei Yi wins the World Cup:

• He becomes China’s first-ever champion
• Secures a direct spot in the 2026 Candidates
• Reignites China’s push in global chess dominance

Summary of the Match Outcome

• Winner: Wei Yi (China)
• Loser: Arjun Erigaisi (India)
• Format: Rapid tie-break
• Impact for India: No direct Candidates qualification from World Cup
• Remaining Indian hope: R Praggnanandhaa via FIDE Circuit