Firouzja has taken complete control of Norway Chess 2026. The Iranian grandmaster sits at 6/6 with a three and a half point lead after beating Praggnanandhaa in the day's only decisive classical game. He's playing like the player who once ranked number two in the world.
Carlsen failed to convert. He drew with Vincent Keymer in the classical game, then salvaged an armageddon win. That's not the dominant performance you expect from the world number one. Gukesh also missed his chance, drawing rather than pushing for victory.
Firouzja's perfect score puts massive distance between himself and the field. At this rate, he's on pace for a dominant performance. The question now is whether anyone can mount a real challenge in the second half of the tournament.
His return to the elite levels has been quiet but steady. A top ten ranking is within reach if he maintains this form. Norway Chess traditionally suits aggressive players who hunt for wins, and Firouzja is doing exactly that. Carlsen and Gukesh will need to find another gear quickly or risk falling further back.