Grandmaster R Praggnanandhaa’s Campaign Highlights Crucial Role of Seconds at Candidates Tournament

Paphos, April 7, 2026: The ongoing Candidates Chess tournament has once again brought attention to the often overlooked role of seconds, with players like R Praggnanandhaa relying heavily on their support teams for preparation at the highest level of competition.

Seconds, usually strong chess players themselves, work behind the scenes to analyse positions, study openings, and prepare strategies using advanced engines. Their role, though largely invisible, is considered vital in helping players navigate complex games.

The discussion gained traction after Hikaru Nakamura publicly blamed his team following a loss, an unusual move in professional chess where such criticism is rarely made openly. His remarks sparked debate on how much responsibility should lie with support teams versus the player.

Experts, including top level seconds, believe that while preparation is crucial, the final decisions always rest with the player at the board. Even the best preparation can falter if the player is not fully familiar with the lines.

Historical examples show that preparation battles between teams have long influenced outcomes at the highest level. From world championship matches to modern tournaments, seconds have played a key role in shaping strategies and outcomes.

With the advancement of powerful chess engines, the role of seconds has evolved. Earlier, preparation required long hours of manual analysis, whereas today the focus has shifted towards selecting the right ideas and ensuring clarity in execution.

Players often work closely with their seconds through practice games and detailed discussions to understand every nuance of prepared positions. This collaboration helps them remain confident during critical moments in matches.

At the Candidates, several players are supported by dedicated teams both on site and remotely. Praggnanandhaa is accompanied by Vaibhav Suri, while others also rely on experienced analysts to assist in preparation.

Experts emphasise that while seconds contribute significantly, accountability ultimately lies with the player, who must make accurate decisions under pressure during the game.

The evolving dynamics between players and their support teams continue to shape modern chess, highlighting that success at the highest level is not just about individual brilliance but also about collective preparation and strategy