After Hans Niemann defeated the World Chess Champion Magnus Carlsen in the third round of the Sinquefield Cup 2022, Carlsen decided to withdraw from the tournament without detailed explanations. Rumors that Magnus Carlsen suspected Niemann was cheating started spreading over social medias, and each day brings new theories on the case. Just today New allegations on Niemann – Carlsen case that Hans Niemann performs much better with live DGT boards emerged. But GM Nigel Davies has another take on the story, asking for direct and quick action to minimize damage in chess. And if needed, GM Davies asks the FIDE Ethics Commission to act. Here is his interview for Chessdom.com
You are well know for having strong positions always backed by serious facts and proof. What is your take on the ongoing Magnus Carlsen – Hans Niemann cheating allegations scandal? You posted a suggestion how to deal with it on Twitter. Can you explain the process for the audience? Are there alternative approaches?
It’s very damaging to the game and needs to be resolved.
Above all there needs to be a process which is clear and consistent. Although initially there were just hints that cheating might have taken place, allowing damaging rumours to continue should be interpreted as a clear indication of what was meant. In the absence of hard evidence that cheating took place it should be counted as a ‘false accusation’, as was the Solozhenkin case some years back. At the same time there should also be a final opportunity for clarification.
See the timetable of happenings related to Carlsen’s withdrawal from the event:
This is not the only cheating allegations scandal in chess, rather a repeating story. Some allegations without proof were punished, like the Solozhenkin case you mention, others like Topalov’s allegations against Kramnik were not. We have precedents in both directions.
In every case there should be a clear and consistent process to follow.
Do you believe Carlsen will make a statement by the end of the tournament?
I don’t know, but if he doesn’t make one soon the issue should be taken up by the Ethics Commission.
You have strong and clear opinions on topics, but you are also a fantastic author. Recently we had a look at 10 ways to get better in chess What next can we expect next from you?
I don’t currently have any books planned, though I continue to work on improving my tigerchess.com site.
