Carlsen Confirmed for London Classic Super Rapid as Entries Surge

Magnus Carlsen will compete in the Super Rapid section of the XTX Markets London Classic on 5–6 December 2026 at the Novotel West at Hammersmith in London, the world No. 1’s participation in an open-format event being a notable rarity.

Tournament Details

The 10-round Super Rapid contest features a time control of 15 minutes per player for the entire game, plus a 10-second increment added each move. Carlsen, who has topped the FIDE ratings for 15 successive years, is one of only two names confirmed so far for the 500-player field.

Entries Surge After Carlsen Announcement

In 2025, the Super Rapid attracted 267 entries. Following the announcement of Carlsen’s participation on Monday, the number of registrations doubled within just 12 hours and currently stands close to 400. Chief Arbiter Alex Holowczak anticipates the field will reach full capacity of 500 participants either this weekend or early next week, urging anyone interested in entering to register immediately to avoid disappointment.

Key Highlights

• Event: London Classic Super Rapid (part of the XTX Markets London Classic)
• Player: Magnus Carlsen (World No. 1 for 15 consecutive years)
• Venue: Novotel West at Hammersmith, London
• Dates: 5–6 December 2026
• Rounds: 10
• Time Control: 15 minutes + 10 seconds per move
• Field capacity: 500 players
• Current entries: approximately 400

The surge in interest following Carlsen’s inclusion underscores the appeal of the Super Rapid format and the star power the Norwegian champion brings to open tournaments on home soil.

Source

This report is based on information published by The Guardian — Chess.

Official source: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2026/nov/13/chess-carlsen-comes-to-town-with-tantalising-tests-for-london-classic-super-rapid