Chess Legend Vladimir Kramnik Criticizes Magnus Carlsen and Questions D Gukesh’s Exclusion from Agreement

Former classical world and world chess champion Vladimir Kramnik has once again stirred up controversy with his recent criticism of Magnus Carlsen and the Freestyle Chess Players Club (FCPC) agreement with FIDE. Kramnik, known for his sharp insights and bold statements, took to social media to question the motives behind the agreement and the absence of young Indian grandmaster D Gukesh from the discussions.

The agreement between FIDE and FCPC, facilitated by Carlsen, Hikaru Nakamura, and Chess.com’s chief chess officer Danny Rensch, has raised eyebrows in the chess community. Kramnik raised concerns about the recognition of future World Championship titles and the live streaming of FCPC matches on Chess.com.

In a series of tweets, Kramnik questioned FIDE’s decision to involve players like Carlsen and Nakamura in the agreement, while leaving out rising star Gukesh. He accused Carlsen of potentially ‘blackmailing’ FIDE by threatening to skip the year-ending Rapid and Blitz World Championship if an agreement wasn’t reached.

Kramnik’s bold statements have sparked a debate within the chess world, with many questioning the role of individual players in governing the sport. The upcoming Freestyle Chess Grand Slam Tour 2025, set to kick off on January 4, will feature top players like Carlsen, Nakamura, Caruana, Anand, and Gukesh.

As the chess world awaits the start of the Tour, Kramnik’s criticism has shed light on the power dynamics within the sport and the need for transparency in future agreements. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story.