FIDE Addresses Controversy Over Time Controls in Candidates Tournament

The upcoming FIDE Candidates tournament has sparked some controversy with the announcement of different time controls for the Women’s event compared to the Open section. The decision to have shorter time controls for the Women’s event has raised questions and concerns among chess enthusiasts.

The Women’s Candidates will feature 90 minutes for the first 40 moves, followed by 30 minutes for the rest of the game, with a 30-second increment per move starting from move 1. On the other hand, the Open section will maintain the standard 120 minutes for the first 40 moves, followed by 30 minutes for the rest of the game, with a 30-second increment per move starting from move 41.

While some have expressed confusion and disappointment over the differing time controls, FIDE’s director general GM Emil Sutovsky has assured that the decision was made after consulting with the players. The German number-one in women’s chess, GM Elisabeth Paehtz, explained that the change was implemented for “energy level reasons” based on feedback from previous tournaments.

Despite the mixed reactions, FIDE has emphasized that the Toronto Candidates tournament will be a historic event, marking the first time both the Open and Women’s Candidates tournaments will be held concurrently under one roof. The tournament, scheduled for April 3 to 25, will offer a substantial prize fund of €500,000 for the Open and €250,000 for the Women’s event.

As the chess world eagerly awaits the outcome of the Candidates tournaments, all eyes will be on the players as they compete for the chance to challenge for the world championship titles. Stay tuned for more updates on this groundbreaking event in the world of chess.