Magnus Carlsen has declined to defend his FIDE World Champion title. The news was announced by Carlsen himself in a sponsor’s podcast. “I have informed my team, FIDE and Ian [Nepomniachtchi] that I will not play the upcoming World Championship match in classical chess”, says Carlsen and adds that “I am not motivated to play another World Championship match.” Read more: Kasparov comments on Carlsen’s decision Next event for Carlsen: Chess Olympiad 2022 (see Norwegian team here) and FTX Crypto Cup Miami
In the podcast, Carlsen does not rule out the possibility of returning to the classical FIDE World Championship in the future . He also makes it clear that he will continue as a full time chess player – but not in the World Championship cycle.
Carlsen chose the International Chess Day to break the news about skipping the World Championship. Today Carlsen and Nepo play in round 1 of the Grand Chess Tour. Follow the games live here
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FIDE President reacts to Carlsen’s decision not to defend the title
