Indian chess star Praggnanandhaa Rameshbabu produced a brilliant final-round victory to win Norway Chess 2026, capping a dramatic finish to one of the year’s most prestigious tournaments.

Entering the final day half a point behind leader Wesley So, Praggnanandhaa knew only a win would give him a realistic chance of claiming the title. The 19-year-old delivered under pressure, defeating Vincent Keymer with the white pieces to secure the full three points and surge to first place.

The victory lifted Praggnanandhaa to 18 points, enough to overtake Wesley So and clinch the Norway Chess crown in Oslo.

So, who had led the standings heading into the final round, drew his classical game against Alireza Firouzja before winning the Armageddon tiebreak. However, the extra points were not enough to keep him ahead of the charging Indian grandmaster.

Firouzja completed a strong campaign to finish third overall.

Elsewhere, world No. 1 Magnus Carlsen signed off in style with a classical victory over reigning world champion Gukesh Dommaraju, delighting home fans with a final-round win.

Final Standings

• Praggnanandhaa Rameshbabu – 18 points
• Wesley So – 17 points
• Alireza Firouzja – 15.5 points

Assaubayeva dominates women’s event

In the Norway Chess Women’s tournament, Bibisara Assaubayeva completed a dominant campaign to secure the title after having already wrapped up first place with a round to spare.

The final day featured three decisive classical games, eliminating the need for Armageddon tiebreaks.

Women’s world champion Ju Wenjun handed Assaubayeva her first classical defeat of the tournament, while Zhu Jiner defeated Humpy Koneru to secure second place overall. Anna Muzychuk also ended her campaign on a high note with a victory over Divya Deshmukh to finish third.

Norway Chess women’s final standings

• Bibisara Assaubayeva – 16.5 points
• Zhu Jiner – 16 points
• Anna Muzychuk – 15 points

Praggnanandhaa’s triumph marks another major milestone in the young Indian grandmaster’s rapidly rising career and further strengthens India’s growing influence at the highest level of world chess.

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has confirmed the operational readiness of around 40 air-conditioned rest areas for delivery riders ahead of the peak summer season.

The facilities, located across key areas including Hessa Street, Al Khawaneej, Al Barsha, Al Satwa, Oud Metha, Al Karama and Arjan, are designed to help riders stay safe and comfortable while working during the hotter months.

According to the RTA, maintenance and preparation works have been completed at all locations, with site selection based on delivery demand and operational data gathered in coordination with delivery companies.

The initiative forms part of Dubai’s wider efforts to improve road safety, support rider wellbeing and enhance working conditions within the rapidly growing delivery sector.

Ahmed Mahboob, CEO of RTA’s Licensing Agency, said traffic safety remains a top priority and that the authority has developed an integrated framework to regulate and support the delivery industry.

Facilities inside rest area

Each rest area includes air-conditioned seating, drinking water facilities and mobile phone charging stations. Depending on the location, the facilities can accommodate around 10 riders at a time and also provide dedicated parking spaces for delivery motorcycles.

The structures have been specially designed to reduce heat exposure and provide thermal insulation, allowing riders to take a break from the sun while remaining close to their delivery routes.

The move comes as Dubai continues to implement measures aimed at improving safety, comfort and quality of life for delivery riders, particularly during the summer months when temperatures can soar.

Citizens and residents across the UAE are being encouraged to take part in a national initiative designed to promote unity, belonging and appreciation for the country’s leadership.

Launched by Sandooq Al Watan, a non-profit organisation supported by Erth Zayed Philanthropies, the campaign invites participants to sign the UAE Pledge and Commitment and receive a personalised digital certificate.

What is the pledge?

The initiative centres on a digital pledge that allows participants to affirm their loyalty to the UAE and its leadership while expressing their commitment to the nation’s values and future.

The pledge highlights the leadership of President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and recognises his role in supporting security, stability and national development. It also reflects the values of unity, coexistence and community responsibility that underpin life in the UAE.

Participants pledge to remain loyal to the country, uphold its values, live together in harmony and contribute to the continued progress and prosperity of the nation.

Why is it being launched?

According to organisers, the initiative aims to strengthen national identity and reinforce the shared values that bring together citizens and residents from diverse backgrounds.

The campaign also seeks to highlight the UAE’s reputation as a model for tolerance, peaceful coexistence and social cohesion.

How can residents take part?

Residents and citizens can sign the pledge online in just a few minutes through the official platform. Once completed, participants receive a personalised UAE Pledge and Commitment Certificate that can be downloaded and shared on social media.

Organisers hope the initiative will encourage wider community participation and foster a stronger sense of belonging across the country.

How to sign the pledge

Taking part is simple:

1. Visit pledge.ae
2. Read the pledge text
3. Sign it digitally
4. Download your personalised Certificate of Appreciation

The certificate can be shared on social media or kept as a personal reminder of your commitment to the UAE’s values and vision.

Officials say the initiative is designed to grow into a nationwide movement that combines digital engagement, community participation and public activities to strengthen social cohesion and national belonging across the country.