Magnus Carlsen, the world's top-ranked chess player, has made a dramatic return to a New York tournament following a dispute over his attire. The controversy arose after Carlsen was initially instructed to change his jeans, leading to his withdrawal from the World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships.
The incident occurred when tournament officials, citing a strict dress code, told Carlsen that his dark jeans were not acceptable, prompting a significant reaction from the chess star. He was given a choice, change his pants or face disqualification from the tournament.
Subsequently, the International Chess Federation (FIDE) has revised its dress code to allow for minor deviations, thereby resolving the dispute. This decision came after Carlsen was fined and told he would not be allowed to compete if he did not comply.
As a result of the policy change, Carlsen has announced his return to the tournament, stating his intention to play while wearing jeans. He expressed his willingness to adhere to dress code regulations moving forward but said he was unable to immediately change his clothes due to how quickly he was needed to play his next game.
Carlsen had explained that he was rushing from a prior meeting and did not consider his jeans to be an issue when he dressed. He was willing to change at the next day, but officials insisted he do so immediately, leading to his withdrawal in protest of the ruling.
FIDE stated that its regulations are designed to ensure professionalism and fairness for all participants. However, Carlsen chose not to appeal the fine or decision, instead opting to leave the tournament as a matter of principle, until the change in policy occurred. The situation has ultimately led to the current understanding that players can wear "elegant minor deviations" from the official dress code.
