DPA
New York
Defending champion Magnus Carlsen caused a scandal at the World Rapid Chess Championship in New York on Friday over his choice of trousers.
After being punished by the world federation FIDE for violating the tournament’s dress code, the 34-year-old Norwegian declared his immediate withdrawal. “If this is what they want to do I’ll probably set off to somewhere where the weather is a bit nicer,” Carlsen said.
The chess world no. 1 had turned up for the match day on Friday wearing jeans, which the participants are not allowed to do. After his second game of the day, Carlsen was fined $200 by FIDE and given an ultimatum to change immediately. Carlsen refused and was subsequently disqualified for round nine.
Carlsen had then declined to continue in the remaining rounds of the tournament.
The World Chess Federation said in a statement issued on Friday evening. “Today, Mr. Magnus Carlsen breached the dress code by wearing jeans, which are explicitly prohibited under long-standing regulations for this event. 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 nine. This decision was made impartially and applies equally to all players.
“Earlier in the day, another participant, Mr. Ian Nepomniachtchi, was also fined for breaching the dress code by wearing sports shoes. However, Mr. Nepomniachtchi complied, changed into approved attire, and continued to play in the tournament.
“The dress code regulations are drafted by members of the FIDE Athletes Commission, which is composed of professional players and experts. These rules have been in place for years and are well-known to all participants and are communicated to them ahead of each event. FIDE has also ensured that the players’ accommodation is within a short walking distance from the playing venue, making adherence to the rules more convenient.
“FIDE remains committed to promoting chess and its values, including respect for the rules that all participants agree to follow”, it said.
