For the first time in chess history, two titans share the crown. Magnus Carlsen and Ian Nepomniachtchi’s decision to split the 2024 FIDE World Blitz Championship title marked a groundbreaking moment in sportsmanship, overcoming fierce competition and unprecedented controversy. A day that will forever redefine the spirit of chess.
BY PC Bureau
The first day of the New Year became a defining moment in chess history as Magnus Carlsen and Ian Nepomniachtchi chose an unprecedented path, agreeing to share the FIDE World Blitz Chess Championship title. After a grueling series of seven games failed to determine a winner, Carlsen—the defending champion—offered a groundbreaking proposal: to split the title. Nepomniachtchi accepted without hesitation, etching their names into the annals of chess as the first co-champions in a World Championship event.
History has been written today! #RapidBlitz
We have two 2024 FIDE World Blitz Champions! Congratulations 👏 👏 pic.twitter.com/nFFslLaYM9
— International Chess Federation (@FIDE_chess) January 1, 2025
For Carlsen, the decision secured his eighth Blitz title, while for Nepomniachtchi, it marked his maiden victory in this format. The extraordinary conclusion came after a sudden death tiebreak that saw both players locked in three consecutive draws. Earlier in the match, Carlsen had seized an early lead with two consecutive wins, needing only a draw to seal the title. Nepomniachtchi, however, showcased remarkable tenacity, winning two must-win games to force the tie and extend the contest.
Drama Off the Board: Carlsen’s Clash with FIDE
The championship’s historic finale was nearly derailed by controversy just days prior. On December 28, Carlsen withdrew from the tournament following a heated dispute over FIDE’s dress code regulations. The disagreement arose when Carlsen was fined for wearing jeans, deemed inappropriate under the federation’s rules. When officials insisted he change immediately to avoid exclusion, Carlsen refused, framing the situation as a matter of principle.
The moment of signing, moment the Magnus Carlsen and Ian Nepomniachtchi became 2024 World Blitz Champions. #RapidBlitz
📷 Michał Walusza pic.twitter.com/zc4RxIFz0E
— International Chess Federation (@FIDE_chess) January 1, 2025
Carlsen openly criticized Viswanathan Anand, a former world champion and FIDE official, for his handling of the issue. “I said I’d change tomorrow, but they demanded I change right then. It became a matter of principle,” Carlsen explained. The dispute escalated, with Carlsen expressing frustration over what he described as inflexible policies.
Reflecting on the controversy, Carlsen remarked, “I barely had time to change before arriving at the venue. I didn’t even think about the jeans. After a warning and a fine, they told me I wouldn’t be paired unless I changed immediately. I offered to change the next day, but they wouldn’t budge. At that point, I decided to walk away.”
Initially resolute, Carlsen announced he would skip both the Rapid and Blitz Championships, quipping that he might “find somewhere with better weather.” However, in a dramatic turn on December 30, FIDE relented, relaxing the dress code. This concession prompted Carlsen to rejoin the competition, setting the stage for his eventual co-championship with Nepomniachtchi.
A New Chapter in Chess History
The decision to share the title is more than a statistical anomaly—it is a testament to the evolving ethos of the chess world, where collaboration and mutual respect can coexist with fierce competition. While Carlsen and Nepomniachtchi’s performances exemplified the highest levels of skill and resilience, their agreement to split the honor reflects a moment of shared humanity in a sport known for its individualism.
January 1, 2025, will be remembered as the day chess transcended its traditions, offering a bold and inspiring narrative for players and fans alike.
