Magnus Carlsen Disqualified from World Rapid Chess Championship for Wearing Jeans After $200 Fine, Scoring 5/8 and Not Paired for Round 9

Dec 28, 2024, 10:28 AM

Magnus Carlsen, the world chess champion, was disqualified from the World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships in New York after refusing to comply with the tournament's dress code by wearing jeans. Initially fined $200 for the violation, Carlsen was subsequently barred from participating in Round 9 of the event. The Chief Arbiter, Alex Holowzsak, confirmed that Carlsen would not be paired for the round due to his non-compliance. Following the disqualification, Carlsen announced his withdrawal from the World Blitz Championship as well, stating he would not return to the tournament. Carlsen, who had a score of 5/8 before his disqualification, expressed his frustration with the governing body FIDE, indicating a broader discontent with the organization. His decision to leave has sparked discussions about the rigidity of dress codes in professional chess.