Indian Chess Star Koneru Humpy Withdraws from Candidates Tournament Over Safety Concerns Amid Gulf Conflict
Koneru Humpy Withdraws from Candidates Tournament Amid Gulf Conflict Concerns
Indian chess star Koneru Humpy has officially announced her withdrawal from the upcoming Candidates tournament scheduled to take place in Cyprus, citing serious safety concerns due to the ongoing Gulf conflict. The two-time World Rapid champion expressed her apprehension about competing in an environment “surrounded by warships,” emphasizing that such conditions are not conducive to a peaceful competition.
Tournament Location Near Volatile Region
Set to commence on March 28, 2026, the Candidates tournament was expected to feature four Indian players, including Humpy. However, the recent escalation of tensions in the region, highlighted by a drone strike on a UK military base near Cyprus, has raised significant security alarms. In light of these developments, Humpy has decided to step back from the tournament, which will now see Ukrainian Grandmaster Anna Muzychuk take her place.
“You can’t play surrounded by warships, which are guarding the island,” Humpy told PTI. “If a foreigner like me, and being a woman, has to travel for such an important tournament, how can I play peacefully?”
Not Afraid of Penalties
Despite the potential for financial penalties associated with her withdrawal, Humpy remains resolute. “That is why they (FIDE) keep these things so that players will not speak out the facts. No, I’m not scared about it. I’m not playing just for money. I just enjoy the sport,” she stated. Humpy revealed that she had dedicated three months to intense preparation for the tournament, sacrificing precious time with her daughter in the process.
Tournament Could Have Been Postponed or Relocated
Humpy suggested that the organizers could have considered postponing or relocating the tournament to ensure the safety of all participants. “They could host the tournament anywhere in the world. Or, if they were particular about holding it in Cyprus, they could have waited for the situation to settle down,” she remarked. She pointed out that the geopolitical tensions in the region are well-known, with Lebanon and Israel being just a short flight away from the island.
Full Support from Family and Personal Decision
The chess icon confirmed that her family is fully supportive of her decision. However, she chose not to discuss her choice with her fellow Indian competitors—R Praggnanandhaa, R Vaishali, and Divya Deshmukh. “I don’t want to talk about anybody else. It’s their wish. Everybody has their own interests and concerns. It’s my choice and my opinion, and I feel absolutely right,” she asserted.
Concerns Over Organisers’ Handling of Safety
Humpy also criticized the tournament organizers for their lack of communication regarding safety measures. “No need to divide and rule without knowing each other’s intention. Whoever independently asked, they were just told, ‘we are monitoring on a day-to-day basis,’” she explained.
As the chess community reflects on Humpy’s bold decision, her stance raises important questions about player safety and the responsibilities of tournament organizers in volatile regions.