Koneru Humpy Voices Safety Concerns in Cyprus, Uncertain About Candidates Tournament Participation
Koneru Humpy Raises Safety Concerns Amid Middle East Conflict, Uncertain About Candidates Tournament Participation
Last Updated: March 18, 2026, 11:27 IST
World chess championship runner-up Koneru Humpy has voiced serious concerns regarding safety in Cyprus, where the upcoming Candidates Tournament is set to take place on March 28. With escalating tensions in the Middle East, Humpy remains undecided about her participation in the prestigious event.
In a heartfelt tweet on Wednesday, Humpy emphasized the importance of addressing the current unsafe situation in Cyprus, stating, “I know that alone, I may not be able to change anything. But regardless of whether I play in the Candidates or not, I felt it was important to express what I genuinely feel.”
The Candidates Tournament will determine the challengers for the world championship titles held by D Gukesh (men) and Ju Wenjun (women). However, Humpy’s hesitation to travel stems from a recent drone attack on a British air base in Cyprus, which has heightened fears of the conflict spilling over into the region.
Earlier this week, Humpy expressed her reluctance to travel, indicating that she was seriously considering withdrawing from the tournament. The ongoing conflict, ignited by US and Israeli strikes on Iran, has raised alarms about security in the area.
Despite Humpy’s concerns, Emil Sutovsky, a key organizer of the tournament, downplayed the risks, asserting that there is nothing “remotely dangerous” to warrant a change of venue. “Our plans haven’t changed. We are in the final stages of preparing for the Candidates’ Tournament. Of course, we are monitoring the situation,” Sutovsky stated.
As the chess community awaits Humpy’s final decision, her stance highlights the broader implications of geopolitical tensions on international sporting events. With the tournament just days away, the chess world is left to ponder the intersection of sport and safety in these uncertain times.