Defending champion Magnus Carlsen has reached the quarter-finals of the World Blitz Chess Championship after his jeans scandal and a dispute over the dress code. There he meets Hans Niemann.
“It’s good to be back, but it was a nervous, hard day”said Carlsen, not entirely satisfied. The 34-year-old Norwegian made good on his announcement and played in jeans again. “It was a good day for chess”said Carlsen afterwards in an interview on the chess platform “Take Take Take”.
See you again with Niemann after an argument
The world association Fide is now threatened with further trouble. In the quarterfinals, Carlsen will face Hans Niemann, with whom he had a big argument two years ago. Carlsen had accused the now 21-year-old American of cheating. A long controversy and legal battle followed, which was not resolved until a year later. “Of course he’s not my favorite opponent”said Carlsen meaningfully.
Carlsen played the rapid chess tournament on Friday (December 27, 2024) in jeans, which was forbidden to the participants. After his second game of the day, the Norwegian received a $200 fine from the organizer and an ultimatum to change immediately. However, Carlsen refused and was subsequently disqualified.
The number one in the world rankings then declared that he would no longer play. The rapid chess tournament ended without Carlsen; the surprise winner was the 18-year-old Russian Volodar Mursin.
World association now flexible with dress code
Carlsen probably doesn’t have to fear another punishment; according to the world association Fide, the officials should no longer be quite as strict when choosing clothing. “The official dress code must still be adhered to, but elegant small deviations (which may include jeans that match the jacket) are permitted.”the association said.
Another strange incident occurred at the World Blitz Chess Championship in New York. The Russian Daniil Dubow did not show up for his match against Niemann and missed his chance to reach the finals. He is said to have fallen asleep in his room.