The much-awaited Freestyle Chess Grand Slam Tour is all set to begin its first leg in Weissenhaus, Germany, on February 7. This event will feature the world’s top players like D. Gukesh, Magnus Carlsen, and Hikaru Nakamura, who are all part of the Freestyle Chess Players Club (FCPC). The club received official recognition from the World Chess Federation (FIDE) in December 2024.
Clash between FIDE and FCPC
However, by February 1, 2025, tensions had escalated between FIDE and FCPC. Jan Henric Buettner, co-owner of FCPC, criticised FIDE for demanding $500,000 for the rights to use the world championship title. He has even threatened to take legal action against the organisation. In response, FIDE CEO Emil Sutovsky defended their right to the title and accused Magnus Carlsen of creating turmoil in the chess world.
Concerns over India’s hosting Freestyle Chess Grand Slam
The ongoing conflict has also affected India’s chances of hosting a leg of the Grand Slam. Viswanathan Anand, who is the deputy president of FIDE, has decided to withdraw from the first leg of the Grand Slam, showing his support for FIDE in the dispute. According to a report by TOI, this development puts India at risk of losing its hosting opportunity in New Delhi scheduled for September.
In an interview, Buettner mentioned that without a suitable investor, Delhi’s place on the 2025 calendar is uncertain. “Delhi is the only tournament we haven’t finalised yet due to offers from other cities,” Buettner explained. If a better offer comes from another location, FCPC might choose to move the venue.
Indian players in the spotlight
Despite these challenges, Indian players are set to showcase their talents. R Pragnanandhaa will compete in Germany, alongside Gukesh. Anand’s withdrawal also comes after Carlsen criticised him for neglecting his FIDE responsibilities, further fuelling the ongoing feud. As the Freestyle Chess Grand Slam Tour unfolds, the focus will be on how India navigates these challenges while its players continue to make their mark on the international scene.
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