Kishan Gangolli Claimed FIDE Candidate Master Title at Samarkand Olympiad

Samarkand Performance Secures CM Title

Kishan Gangolli was directly awarded the FIDE Candidate Master (CM) title at the 3rd FIDE Chess Olympiad for Persons with Disabilities 2026, held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. The Karnataka-based player delivered a strong showing across seven rounds, scoring 5.5 out of 7 with a rating performance of 2200.

The Karnataka State Chess Association (KSCA) congratulated Gangolli on the milestone, recognising the result as a significant step in his growing international career.

A Record of Progression

Gangolli’s Olympiad record demonstrates steady improvement across three editions of the event:

• 2023 – Serbia: Silver medal at the inaugural FIDE Chess Olympiad for Persons with Disabilities
• 2025 – Kazakhstan: Gold medal at the 2nd Olympiad, playing on Board 3
• 2026 – Samarkand: FIDE Candidate Master title earned with a 5.5/7 score

The progression from silver to gold to a FIDE title in just three years marks a remarkable trajectory for the young Indian player.

What the Score Means

A 5.5/7 scoreline in a 7-round Olympiad represents a performance rate of approximately 78.6 per cent. Combined with a 2200 performance rating, the result comfortably exceeded the thresholds required for the Candidate Master norm. The direct award bypasses the need for additional norms, recognising the strength of opposition and consistency across the entire event.

Looking Ahead

Gangolli now carries the Candidate Master designation into future competitions, building on a foundation that includes two Olympiad medals and a proven ability to deliver under pressure. The KSCA extended wishes for continued success in the years ahead.

Source

This report is based on information published by Karnataka State Chess Association.

Official source: https://karnatakachess.com/kishan-gangolli-awarded-fide-candidate-master-title-at-chess-olympiad-2026/