Oslo, Anemone Kulczak, the chief arbiter at Norway Chess, believes reigning world champion D Gukesh has the edge in experience over challenger Javokhir Sindarov.
Kulczak, a seasoned French arbiter, has been a constant presence at the tournament since its early days in 2013 and has witnessed its evolution, innovations, and shifting fortunes.
While Sindarov has experience, Gukesh has more experience, making him the clear favourite to defend his title, according to Kulczak.
Gukesh will face Sindarov later this year, with critics pointing to a dip in form since his 2024 world title triumph.
Kulczak has officiated at top-level chess events, including the 2014 Chess Olympiad in Norway, and has earned her International Arbiter title.
She praises the Indian contingent, saying players such as Praggnanandhaa, Gukesh, Divya Deshmukh, and Koneru Humpy are an arbiter's delight due to their consistent rule-following.
Kulczak believes Carlsen's longevity depends on his spirit, and if he wants to, he's capable of surpassing Garry Kasparov's record of spending 20 years as the world No. 1 in classical chess.
