FIDE is currently engaged in a conflict with Magnus Carlsen’s Freestyle Chess Players Club (FCPC), intensifying the ongoing controversy. In December of the previous year, FIDE officially acknowledged the FCPC and its Freestyle Chess Grand Slam Tour. However, shortly thereafter, allegations emerged suggesting that FIDE was compelled to reach an agreement to avoid the potential withdrawal of Carlsen from the year-end Rapid and Blitz Championship.

The situation escalated during the Rapid Championship in New York when Carlsen faced scrutiny for not complying with FIDE’s dress code, resulting in a fine. After refusing to change his jeans, he was not paired for the remainder of the day. In protest, the Norwegian withdrew from the tournament, claiming that FIDE had threatened FCPC players with exclusion from the World Championship cycle should they participate in the Freestyle Chess Grand Slam.

As of January 2025, FIDE has accused prominent players such as Carlsen and Hikaru Nakamura of fostering divisions within the chess community through the FCPC. FIDE also stated that their recognition of the FCPC was extended out of 'goodwill.'

In reaction, World No. 3 Nakamura posted a video on YouTube criticizing FIDE and calling for the world’s leading players to boycott the international chess organization. Should the top players heed Nakamura’s call, it may lead to significant Indian players, including reigning world champion D. Gukesh, Arjun Erigaisi, R. Praggnanandhaa, and Vidit Gujrathi, withdrawing from official Indian tournaments.

Nakamura advocates for participation in events like the Freestyle Grand Slam Tour, which offers more substantial prize money compared to non-FIDE tournaments. If this boycott materializes, it could result in D Gukesh relinquishing his title as world champion. Concurrently, FIDE may consider legal action against the players. The FCPC is also seeking recognition for their own World Championship by FIDE but has yet to achieve this goal.

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