Fabiano Caruana has secured victory in the 2024 FIDE Circuit, earning a spot in the 2026 Candidates Tournament.

Throughout the year-long competition, Caruana and Indian Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi were the primary contenders for the top position. Arjun maintained the lead for most of the race; however, Caruana's exceptional performances at the end of the year, notably his consecutive titles at the US Masters in Charlotte and the Saint Louis Masters, enabled him to overtake Erigaisi.

In the final event of the year, the FIDE World Rapid & Blitz Championships, Erigaisi had his last chance to reclaim the lead. However, his fifth-place finish in the rapid event eliminated any scenario in which he could surpass Caruana.

Remarkably, over his illustrious career, Fabiano Caruana has qualified for the Candidates Tournament through six different paths—this time via the FIDE Circuit 2024.

FIDE Circuit 2024 final standings

The new edition of the FIDE Circuit is already underway, with Ding Liren currently leading the race following his title match with Gukesh D.