Defending World Rapid and Blitz Champion Magnus Carlsen quit the World Rapid Chess Championship after being penalised for a dress code violation (jeans) in New York City. The Norwegian chess icon was barred from participating in Round 9 of the Rapid section after violating FIDE’s strict dress code by wearing jeans.
Carlsen was fined $200 for the infraction and subsequently disqualified after refusing to comply with the dress code. Chief Arbiter Alex Holowczak made the decision, citing a “repeated violation.” Carlsen later announced that he would not participate in the Blitz section of the championship.
Speaking to Norwegian broadcaster NRK, Carlsen also confirmed that he would not participate in the Blitz section of the event. “I’m 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.”
In a subsequent interview with Take Take Take, Carlsen elaborated on his stance: “I said I’d change tomorrow, but they said I had to change now, and it became a matter of principle for me. Honestly, I’m too old at this point to care too much. If this is what they want to do, I’ll probably set off to somewhere where the weather is a bit nicer.”
FIDE issued a formal statement explaining the decision: “FIDE regulations for the World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships, including the dress code, are designed to ensure professionalism and fairness for all participants,” the statement read. “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 9. This decision was made impartially and applies equally to all players.”
The statement also noted that another high-profile player, Ian Nepomniachtchi, faced a similar situation earlier in the day for wearing sports shoes. However, Nepomniachtchi complied with the regulations, changed into approved attire, and continued in the tournament.
“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,” the statement added.
