BY PC Bureau
"FUCK YOU" @MagnusCarlsen is out. pic.twitter.com/3QWZtBHCPL
— Take Take Take (@TakeTakeTakeApp) December 27, 2024
Former world chess champion Magnus Carlsen faced an unexpected exit from the World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championship in New York on Friday after violating the tournament’s dress code. The International Chess Federation (FIDE) disqualified Carlsen, the defending champion, for refusing to change out of jeans and into formal attire.
Initially fined $200 for the infraction, Carlsen was asked by Chief Arbiter Alex Holowczak to immediately change his clothing. When he declined, Carlsen was barred from participating in Round 9 of the tournament at Wall Street.
FIDE statement regarding Magnus Carlsen’s dress code breach
FIDE regulations for the World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships, including the dress code, are designed to ensure professionalism and fairness for all participants.
Today, Mr. Magnus Carlsen breached the dress code… pic.twitter.com/SLdxBpzroe
— International Chess Federation (@FIDE_chess) December 27, 2024
FIDE released a statement highlighting the importance of adhering to dress code regulations, which are intended to maintain professionalism.
“The dress code regulations are drafted by members of the FIDE Athletes Commission, which includes professional players and experts. These rules have been in place for years and are well-known to all participants, communicated ahead of each event,” the statement read.
FIDE further clarified that accommodations for players were situated within walking distance of the venue to ensure compliance.
“Today, Mr. Magnus Carlsen breached the dress code by wearing jeans, explicitly prohibited under the regulations. The Chief Arbiter informed Mr. Carlsen of the breach, issued a $200 fine, and requested that he change his attire. Unfortunately, Mr. Carlsen declined, and as a result, he was not paired for Round 9. This decision was made impartially and applies equally to all players.”
The incident followed a similar violation earlier in the tournament involving Russian Grandmaster Ian Nepomniachtchi, who complied with the dress code after being fined and was allowed to continue.
Carlsen expressed frustration over the disqualification, stating he would not participate in the Blitz section of the championship. Speaking to Norwegian broadcaster NRK, he said, “I am pretty tired of FIDE, so I want no more of this. I don’t want anything to do with them. I am sorry to everyone at home. Maybe it’s a stupid principle, but I don’t think it’s any fun.”
He added, “I said I don’t want to bother changing now, but I can change until tomorrow. That’s fine. But they didn’t want to compromise. I’ve reached a point where I am pretty upset with FIDE, so I didn’t want to either. Then that’s how it goes.”
