Magnus Carlsen and Ian Nepomniachtchi made chess history by agreeing to share the 2024 FIDE World Blitz Championship title in New York. The unprecedented decision followed an intense final match in which both players demonstrated extraordinary skill but ended in a tie after three evenly-fought games in the sudden death round.
Carlsen expressed satisfaction with the outcome, stating, “It feels very good to share gold with Nepo. It was a long day, and sharing the title felt like a good resolution.”
Magnus : “If they like refuse, we can just play short draws until they give up.”
Isn’t this match-fixing, @FIDE_chess? Dubov & Nepo were double forfeited last year for pre-arranging a draw, why wasn’t similar action taken this time around? pic.twitter.com/WjyteaztLi
— Abhiraj (@mytywarriorking) January 1, 2025
Intense Final Match
The final began with Carlsen taking a strong lead, winning the first two games. Ian Nepomniachtchi staged a remarkable comeback in the third and fourth games, leveling the score to 2-2. In the sudden death rounds, the duo displayed near-perfect accuracy, resulting in three consecutive draws.
After discussions with the International Chess Federation (FIDE), Carlsen proposed to share the title, a suggestion Ian accepted.
Match-Fixing Controversy
The agreement was overshadowed by allegations of match-fixing after a backstage video surfaced online. In the video, Carlsen allegedly told Ian, “Just play short draws until they give up.” Fans and chess experts criticized the statement, accusing the players of undermining the competition’s integrity.
Indian grandmaster Srinath Narayanan questioned FIDE’s handling of the situation, pointing out inconsistencies in their enforcement of regulations. “This is wrong on many levels,” Narayanan commented, adding, “It shows where power resides in the chess world.”
Carlsen’s Jeans Controversy
This incident follows another controversy involving Carlsen, who violated the tournament’s dress code by wearing jeans at the World Rapid and Blitz Championships. Initially disqualified, Carlsen was allowed to participate after FIDE relaxed the dress code rules.
Fans Demand Answers
Social media platforms were abuzz with reactions, with fans demanding accountability from FIDE. Many criticized the lack of penalties, citing previous instances where players faced consequences for similar actions.
