World Chess Number One Magnus Carlsen Returns to Tournament After Dress Code Dispute

World chess number one Magnus Carlsen is making a triumphant return to a major tournament after a fashion faux pas led to his abrupt exit. The International Chess Federation (FIDE) has relaxed its dress code to allow for “elegant minor deviations”, including the use of appropriate jeans matching a jacket.

Carlsen, defending his titles at the Fide World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships in New York, found himself in hot water when he was told to change his trousers after a lunch meeting before the competition. “I put on a shirt, jacket and honestly like I didn’t even think about jeans,” he explained to chess publication Take Take Take.

After being threatened with a fine and ultimately being barred from playing if he didn’t comply, Carlsen decided to leave the competition, citing his age and lack of concern for such matters. However, FIDE quickly revised its rules in response to the incident, allowing Carlsen to return to the championships.

In an interview with Take Take Take, Carlsen expressed his relief at being able to play again, emphasizing his love for the tournament. FIDE president Arkady Dvorkovich warned players against taking advantage of the new dress code flexibility, stating that “special assistants” will be available to help judges determine the acceptability of players’ outfits.

This incident marks a dramatic turn of events for Carlsen, who has previously been embroiled in controversies within the chess world, including a high-profile dispute with rival Hans Niemann. Despite the challenges, Carlsen’s return to the tournament has been hailed as “great news for the chess world” by FIDE.