Viswanathan Anand Backs FIDE’s Decision to Host Candidates 2026 in Cyprus Amid War Concerns

Chess Legend Viswanathan Anand Defends FIDE’s Decision to Host Candidates 2026 in Cyprus Amid War Concerns

Cyprus – In a bold stance amid escalating tensions in West Asia, legendary Indian chess Grandmaster and FIDE vice-president Viswanathan Anand has voiced his support for the decision to hold the Candidates 2026 tournament in Cyprus. This announcement comes despite growing concerns over safety due to the ongoing conflict involving the USA, Israel, and Iran.

The war, which erupted over two weeks ago, has cast a shadow over the region, with Cyprus, located in the eastern Mediterranean, not entirely insulated from its effects. A recent drone strike on a British air base in Cyprus has heightened anxieties among participants in the upcoming tournaments, scheduled to commence on March 28 at the St. Georges Hotel & Resort.

Indian chess star Koneru Humpy has already expressed her intention to withdraw from the tournament, citing significant risks associated with the current geopolitical climate. However, Anand remains steadfast in his belief that Cyprus is a suitable venue.

“FIDE tries to first find a good high-quality venue, and I think we’ve succeeded in that. Cyprus will be a very good venue, and I think the location is going to be amazing,” Anand stated in an interview with PTI. He emphasized the importance of focusing on the tournament itself, suggesting that players can compartmentalize their concerns once they are informed of the logistics.

Anand is not alone in his support; FIDE CEO Emil Sutovsky has also confirmed that there are no plans to change the venue. “Our plans have not changed. We are in the final stages of preparing the Candidates’ Tournament. Of course, we are monitoring the situation. Cyprus is not too far from the conflict zone, but at the same time, it is not directly involved in any way and is not in a state of war,” Sutovsky remarked.

The Candidates tournament will feature a mix of seasoned players and rising stars, including Divya Deshmukh and R Vaishali in the Women’s Candidates, while R Praggnanandhaa will represent India in the Open section. The winner of this prestigious event will earn the right to challenge D Gukesh for the World Chess Championship title.

As the chess community grapples with the implications of hosting the tournament in a region affected by conflict, Anand’s defense of FIDE’s decision underscores a commitment to the sport and its players. The chess world will be watching closely as the situation unfolds in the lead-up to this highly anticipated event.