The Argentinian prodigy Faustino Oro will play at the Aeroflot Opening 2026. He's trying to achieve the third GM norm and break the record set by American Abhimanyu Mishra. Ahead of the tournament, we asked Oro a few questions:
- Faustino, what are your expectations from the Aeroflot Open? Are you focused on obtaining the 3rd GM norm?
- I am very excited to play in a tournament with as much history as the Aeroflot Open. Rather than obsessing over the norm, my goal is to play my best chess against high-level opponents. If I play well, the norm will come naturally.
- Do you prefer to play in Swiss, round-robin or knockout events? If one is preferable, why is it so?
- My favorite is the Round-robin (closed) because you can prepare specifically for each opponent, but I actually enjoy all three. The Knockout system has an exciting tension, and the Swiss Open has a special energy where every round is a different battle.
- What do you think about a "rapid classic" time control?
- I find it to be a very interesting format. I believe the public receives it much better because it is more dynamic and exciting to watch, which is very positive for chess.
- Do you study school subjects or are you fully concentrated on chess?
- I try to maintain a balance. Although chess takes up most of my day and is my great passion, I continue to fulfill my school responsibilities.
- Who are your favorites in the FIDE Candidates?
- I think Fabiano Caruana is coming in very strong, although it will be very close and anyone having a good tournament could take it.
- Faustino, what are your expectations from the Aeroflot Open? Are you focused on obtaining the 3rd GM norm?
- I am very excited to play in a tournament with as much history as the Aeroflot Open. Rather than obsessing over the norm, my goal is to play my best chess against high-level opponents. If I play well, the norm will come naturally.
- Do you prefer to play in Swiss, round-robin or knockout events? If one is preferable, why is it so?
- My favorite is the Round-robin (closed) because you can prepare specifically for each opponent, but I actually enjoy all three. The Knockout system has an exciting tension, and the Swiss Open has a special energy where every round is a different battle.
- What do you think about a "rapid classic" time control?
- I find it to be a very interesting format. I believe the public receives it much better because it is more dynamic and exciting to watch, which is very positive for chess.
- Do you study school subjects or are you fully concentrated on chess?
- I try to maintain a balance. Although chess takes up most of my day and is my great passion, I continue to fulfill my school responsibilities.
- Who are your favorites in the FIDE Candidates?
- I think Fabiano Caruana is coming in very strong, although it will be very close and anyone having a good tournament could take it.
Photo: Michal Walusza / FIDE