Magnus Carlsen withdrew from the World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships in New York after FIDE fined him $200 for wearing jeans, a violation of the tournament's dress code. Offered the chance to change, Carlsen declined due to time constraints, leading to his exclusion from the event.
On December 27, 2024, during the World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships in New York, Grandmaster Magnus Carlsen withdrew from the tournament following a dress code violation enforced by the International Chess Federation (FIDE). Carlsen, a five-time world champion, was fined $200 for wearing jeans, which are explicitly prohibited under the event's regulations.
The incident occurred after Carlsen returned from a lunch meeting, during which he changed his shoes and added a shirt and jacket but overlooked his jeans. FIDE officials offered him the opportunity to change attire before the next round; however, Carlsen declined, citing insufficient time. He expressed willingness to comply with the dress code the following day, but FIDE insisted on immediate adherence.
As a result of non-compliance, Carlsen was not paired for the ninth round and subsequently chose to withdraw from both the Rapid and Blitz tournaments. In a statement, he remarked, "I am pretty tired of FIDE, so I want no more of this," indicating his frustration with the governing body and also used some strong language to express his distress in the post game interview with the "Take Take Take" team and Levy Rosman.
FIDE's dress code aims to maintain professionalism and impartiality during tournaments. The organization emphasized that the regulations have been in place for years and are applied uniformly to all participants. For instance, another player, Ian Nepomniachtchi, was fined for wearing sports shoes but complied by changing into appropriate attire.
Carlsen's withdrawal has significant implications for the tournament, as he was a leading contender for the titles. His decision also raises questions about his future participation in FIDE-sanctioned events, given his expressed dissatisfaction with the organization.
The World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships are prestigious events that attract top players globally. The 2024 edition, held at Cipriani Wall Street in New York City, features a prize fund of $550,000 for the open tournament.
In summary, Magnus Carlsen's withdrawal from the World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships resulted from a dress code enforcement by FIDE, highlighting the organization's commitment to its regulations and prompting discussions about player governance and compliance in professional chess.
