Top-ranked chess grandmaster Magnus Carlsen has withdrawn from the World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships in New York after refusing to comply with the International Chess Federation's (FIDE) dress code. The federation prohibits participants from wearing jeans during the event, leading to a standoff with the Norwegian champion. FIDE stated on Friday that Carlsen, 34, was informed by the Chief Arbiter of the violation, fined $200, and requested to change his attire. When he declined, the federation disallowed him from competing in round nine, citing impartial enforcement of the rules. In a video posted on social media, Carlsen acknowledged the fine but stood by his decision not to change his jeans. "I said, 'I'll change tomorrow if that's OK,' but they said, 'You have to change now.' At that point, it became a matter of principle for me," Carlsen explained. FIDE emphasized that the dress code aims to ensure professionalism and fairness among participants. Russian grandmaster Ian Nepomniachtchi was also fined earlier in the tournament for wearing sports shoes but complied by changing into approved attire, allowing him to continue competing. "These rules have been in place for years and are well-known to all participants," FIDE noted, adding that the guidelines are communicated before every event. Carlsen's decision to leave the championship has sparked debate among chess enthusiasts and professionals, with some supporting his stand on principle while others argue that adherence to established rules is essential for maintaining professionalism in the sport. — Agencies
