Magnus Carlsen’s Powerful Speech at FIDE 100 Gala: A Tribute to Garry Kasparov and a Stand Against Russian and Belarusian Chess Federations

GM Magnus Carlsen, the reigning World Chess Champion, made waves in the chess world with a powerful speech at the FIDE 100 Gala in Budapest, Hungary. Carlsen, who was honored with the title of Greatest of All Time (G.O.A.T) by FIDE, used the moment to express humility and take a stand against reinstating the Russian and Belarusian chess federations.

During the ceremony, Carlsen received the prestigious award from FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich, a fellow Russian. In a surprising move, Carlsen expressed his humility by stating that he believed the 13th world champion, GM Garry Kasparov, was more deserving of the title. “I am of course happy to get this award, but in my personal opinion, I still think Garry has had a better chess career than I have. I understand why I got this award, but he was more deserving,” Carlsen said.

In a rare political statement, Carlsen went on to say, “I would say, at least in Garry’s honor, I am sure that he would take the opportunity to advise against reinstating the Russian and Belarusian Chess Federations, so that is what I would do as well. Thank you.”

The controversial proposal to lift the restrictions on Russian and Belarusian chess federations, put forth by the Kyrgyz Chess Federation, has been met with protests from several Western chess federations, including Ukraine. Carlsen, who has previously stayed out of political discussions, has changed his view on the matter as the war in Ukraine continues.

The FIDE 100 Gala celebrated the centenary of the world chess governing body and recognized the accomplishments of individuals, groups, and organizations within the chess community. Other notable winners at the event included GM Judit Polgar, who was honored as the greatest female player ever.

Carlsen’s speech, which honored his former coach Garry Kasparov, has been praised by fellow chess players and fans alike. The moment was a powerful reminder of the impact that chess can have beyond the board, and the importance of standing up for what is right in the face of adversity.