Magnus Carlsen Quits World Rapid and Blitz Championships
World No. 1 chess player Magnus Carlsen withdrew from the World Rapid Chess Championship after refusing to change out of jeans.
Carlsen breached the dress code, was fined $200, and was warned he would not be paired for round nine unless he changed his attire.
Carlsen described the situation as a “matter of principle,” stating he didn’t appeal the decision and walked away instead.
The incident also led to his withdrawal from the World Blitz Championship that followed the Rapid tournament.
Carlsen had performed poorly in earlier rounds, reducing his chances of defending his title, which may have influenced his decision to leave.
Ian Nepomniachtchi also breached the dress code but continued playing after changing his shoes, as per FIDE’s impartial application of rules.
Carlsen claimed he didn’t have time to change after attending a lunch meeting and offered to change the next day, but this was declined.
Carlsen’s relations with FIDE have been strained, with accusations of the organization undermining alternative chess formats like Freestyle Chess.
FIDE’s CEO Emil Sutovsky denied Carlsen’s claims, stating FIDE is the governing body and reserves the right to approve any event as a World Championship.