Oslo, Feb 18 (.) Wesley So has confirmed his participation in the 2026 edition of Norway Chess, marking his sixth appearance at one of the world’s premier chess tournaments, as per a release.
“I am delighted to be coming back to play Norway Chess. And what a pleasure to be visiting in brilliant sunshine! Toasting to a fun and challenging event! Skål!” So said, expressing his excitement about returning to the competition.
A former World No. 2, So has remained among the elite players in international chess for more than a decade. He crossed the coveted 2800 rating mark during his peak and registered a remarkable 67-game unbeaten streak in classical chess between 2016 and 2017.
He earned the grandmaster title at the age of 14 and has since built an outstanding career. His achievements include winning the FIDE World Fischer Random Championship in 2019, securing three U.S. Championship titles, claiming an Olympiad gold medal with the United States, and winning multiple elite international tournaments.
Tournament organisers also welcomed his return, highlighting his consistency and quality.
Chief Operating Officer Benedicte Westre Skog said So has been among the world’s best for many years and brings calmness, depth, and fighting strength to every game, adding that his presence guarantees high-quality chess.
Norway Chess features top male and female players competing in a six-player double round-robin format. The tournament has also introduced a women’s event with equal prize money, underlining its commitment to gender equality.
The 2026 edition of the tournament is scheduled to be held from May 25 to June 5 at Deichman Bjørvika in Oslo.
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