Recently, the relationship between Magnus Carlsen, Norway's iconic chess player and FIDE, the world chess governing body, has been less than cordial. The tension between the two parties escalated after Carlsen's alleged breach of dress codes during the World Rapid and Blitz Championships in December, when he wore jeans to the event. This was followed by a public spat with the international organization. Carlsen's barb also included Indian chess legend Viswanathan Anand, who is the deputy president of the FIDE.
Criticism from Carlsen Against FIDE and Anand
Carlsen, as he is known for being behind one's ears, has not been one to hide his voice against FIDE. His loudest lament came after the violation of the dress code and then also with controversies like sharing the blitz world title with Ian Nepomniachtchi followed by accusations related to match-fixing. At the same time, during this time, Carlsen was free to criticize Anand, saying that India's chess legend was "not ready for this job" given to him with regards to the senior role at FIDE.
Vidit Gujrathi Weighs In
Indian Grandmaster Vidit Gujrathi, who made history with the Indian gold medal-winning team at the 2023 Chess Olympiad, also weighed in on his views regarding Carlsen's antics. He said Carlsen is nothing but a "rebel," and quite naturally, he can vent his views from the majesty of chess.
"This is the thing he can afford. He is world champion and he can get away with it. Now the thing has become that he is bigger than the sport right now," he said on an episode of comedian Cyrus Broacha's YouTube show Cyrus Says!.
Gujrathi likened Carlsen to Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan as he alleged that the Norwegian has become bigger than the sport itself.
"Sometimes, the artist becomes bigger than the art. SRK is SRK. He is a star. Now if SRK's movie comes, you will go to watch it. But you agree that there are some stars," Gujrathi further said.
Carlsen's Stance on FIDE
The antipathy between Carlsen and FIDE was manifested further in the First Freestyle Chess Grand Slam Tour organized in Weissenhaus, Germany, where he took third place among the contestants. Still, he reaffirmed his stand that he had pulled out from being involved with FIDE and would very unlikely consider competition in any of their events in the future.
"I have severed ties with FIDE and am not likely to participate in any tournament organized by them ever again," stated Carlsen during the event.
Magnus Carlsen continues to be in spotlight
Magnus Carlsen's continuing rift with FIDE and criticism of Viswanathan Anand add tremendously to the drama-filled chess world. He is definitely one of the major stars in this sport, and his outspoken nature will polarize opinion on either side of the controversy with which he has surrounded himself. The words, however, reveal not only the debate but quite likely the growing contention that seems to be developing between the world's top players and the chess establishments. As it unfolds, fans and players will watch closely to see what happens next.