Magnus Carlsen Disqualified from World Rapid and Blitz Championship 2024 for Dress Code Violation

Magnus Carlsen, the renowned chess grandmaster and multiple-time world champion, found himself at the center of controversy during the World Rapid and Blitz Championship 2024 in Wall Street, New York. Carlsen, who is the reigning World Rapid and Blitz champion, was disqualified by FIDE for violating the tournament’s formal dress code by wearing jeans, which are explicitly prohibited.

The Norwegian champion was initially fined $200 for the dress code violation and was asked to change into formal attire immediately. However, Carlsen refused to comply, stating that he had agreed to follow the dress code from the next day but was not prepared to do so immediately. As a result, Carlsen was not paired for Round 9, and FIDE Chief Arbiter Alex Holowzsak ultimately disqualified him, citing impartial rules that apply to all players regardless of their stature.

In a statement, FIDE emphasized that the dress code regulations for the World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships are designed to ensure professionalism and fairness for all participants. The organization highlighted that the rules, including the prohibition of jeans, have been in place for years and are well-known to all players.

Despite the disqualification, Carlsen openly criticized FIDE, calling the regulations “stupid” and expressing his frustration with the situation. He stated that he did not plan to appeal the decision and indicated that he was ready to move on from the controversy.

The incident involving Carlsen’s disqualification has sparked debate within the chess community, with some supporting FIDE’s enforcement of the dress code and others questioning the severity of the punishment. As the World Rapid and Blitz Championship continues, the absence of the reigning champion has undoubtedly added an unexpected twist to the competition.