Chess Champion Carlsen Walks Out After Dress Code dispute
Five-time world chess champion Magnus Carlsen dramatically withdrew from the World Blitz and Rapid Chess Championships in New York City on Tuesday after a clash with organizers over his attire. The Norwegian grandmaster, currently ranked number one in the world, refused to change his jeans, leading to his disqualification and a fiery exit.
Carlsen, the reigning champion of the event, was informed by the International Chess Federation (FIDE) that his jeans violated the dress code. According to reports, he was initially fined $200 for the infraction. Though, when pressed to change immediately, Carlsen’s frustration boiled over.
“I’m quitting, screw you,”
Carlsen reportedly stated after his disqualification. He explained the situation, citing a tight schedule that included a lunch meeting before the competition.
“I put on a shirt and a jacket, and to be honest, I didn’t think about the jeans at all, and even changed my shoes,” Carlsen said. “At first I was fined, which I could accept. But then they warned me that if I didn’t change my clothes, I wouldn’t be allowed to play. I said, ‘I’ll change it tomorrow if I can, I really didn’t notice it today,’ but they insisted that I change it immediately. At that moment, it became a matter of principle for me.”
The 34-year-old Carlsen, who holds the highest ever Elo rating in chess history and has maintained the world’s number one ranking since July 1, 2011, stated he wouldn’t appeal the decision.”To be honest, I’m older now and I don’t care too much about it,” he added.
This incident isn’t the only dress code controversy at the championships. Russian player Ian Nepomniachtchi, ranked eighth in the world, was also fined for wearing sneakers but chose to comply by changing into leather shoes.
A Matter of Principle
Carlsen’s actions have sparked debate among chess fans and commentators. While some criticize his impulsive reaction, others applaud his defiance of what they see as an arbitrary rule. The incident highlights the sometimes-tense relationship between players and governing bodies in the world of professional chess.
Video source: YouTube@ChessBase India
