Magnus Carlsen's criticism of FIDE has been extensively reported, and the reigning World No. 1 has severed all connections with the international chess federation following their failure to officially acknowledge a Freestyle Chess World Championship. In an interview with the Take Take Take application, which he co-owns, the Norwegian disclosed that he had received assurances regarding the acceptance of the Freestyle World Championship from FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich himself.

Subsequently, Carlsen participated in the World Rapid and Blitz Championship, which was marred by several controversies. Initially, he faced the "Deansgate" incident during the Rapid Tournament, where he was fined for wearing jeans and subsequently expelled for the day. In light of this, Carlsen withdrew from the event but later returned for the Blitz Championship, where he found himself embroiled in further controversy. He shared the title with Nepomniachtchi, and a leaked backstage video sparked allegations of match-fixing. Carlsen later addressed these claims, asserting that his statements had been misinterpreted and that his decision to share the title was a response to FIDE's inadequate tie-breaker regulations.

After his withdrawal from the Rapid Championship, Carlsen also criticized FIDE Deputy President Viswanathan Anand, expressing dissatisfaction with his performance in the role. He remarked, "He was not ready for this job. That’s what I feel."

In contrast, Anand responded to ChessBase India by stating that Carlsen had refused to adhere to the established rules, leaving FIDE with limited options.

‘He is a rebel’

Indian Grandmaster Vidit Gujrathi recently made an appearance on comedian Cyrus Broacha’s YouTube program, where he was questioned about the concept of sledging in chess, particularly in relation to Magnus Carlsen. Gujrathi remarked, “He recently made a statement to the World Chess Federation and then participated in the tournament the following day,” including an expletive in his commentary.

Broacha subsequently inquired about Carlsen’s remarks regarding Viswanathan Anand, to which Gujrathi responded, “Vishy is now affiliated with FIDE. They maintain a very amicable relationship.”

Gujrathi is also a member of the Freestyle Chess Players Club, which competes in the Grand Slam Tour, co-owned by Carlsen. He mentioned that he was not fully aware of Carlsen’s specific comments, as he was preoccupied with preparations for his upcoming wedding. When pressed further, he described Carlsen as “a rebel.”

The host, however, continued to delve deeper into the topic. “The reality is that he can afford to do so. As the world champion, he can escape scrutiny. It has reached a point where he seems to overshadow the sport itself,” he stated.

He then drew a parallel between Carlsen and the renowned actor Shah Rukh Khan. “At times, the artist transcends the art,” he noted. 

“SRK is SRK. He is a star. 

“When a new film featuring SRK is released, you will certainly go to see it. 

“However, it is acknowledged that there are certain stars,” he concluded.

The host then decided to stop pressing the Asian Games silver medallist regarding the matter. Carlsen is currently participating at the Weissenhaus Freestyle Chess Grand Slam and lost to Vincent Keymer in the semi-finals.

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