Uzbekistan's Javokhir Sindarov surged into a shared lead at the Tata Steel Chess Masters after Round 11, joining compatriot Nodirbek Abdusattorov at the top with 7/11 points. Sindarov's impressive performance included a crucial win against India's Arjun Erigaisi, capitalizing on a late-game error to secure the full point. Meanwhile, Abdusattorov drew his game against Jorden Van Foreest.

The day proved challenging for the Indian contingent overall. Erigaisi's loss to Sindarov was a significant setback, while other Indian players also struggled to make headway. Praggnanandhaa Rameshbabu lost to Vincent Keymer. World Champion D Gukesh faced Aravindh Chithambaram; this was also one of the high profile games involving Indian players.

Hans Niemann, after defeating Thai Dai Van Nguyen, joined a three-way tie for third place, half a point behind the leaders. Anish Giri also secured a notable victory against Yagiz Kaan Erdogmus.

The standings after Round 11 are: 1-2. Sindarov, Abdusattorov 7 points; 3-5. Niemann, Van Foreest, Bluebaum 6.5 points.

With only two rounds remaining, the competition remains fierce. Round 12 will feature crucial matchups including Abdusattorov against Bluebaum, Sindarov against Praggnanandhaa and Niemann against Gukesh.

In the Challengers section, Andy Woodward has regained the lead after beating Marc'Andria Maurizzi. He now stands at 8.5/11, with Vasyl Ivanchuk and Aydin Suleymanli trailing by half a point. Ivanchuk defeated Suleymanli in Round 11.

The Tata Steel Chess Tournament is being held in Wijk aan Zee, Netherlands, from January 17 to February 1, 2026. The time control is 120 minutes for 40 moves, followed by 30 minutes for the remainder of the game, with a 30-second increment starting on move 41.