Freestyle Chess Grand Slam’s New Delhi Leg Faces Uncertainty Amid Sponsorship Challenges

The Freestyle Chess Grand Slam Tour's New Delhi event faces uncertainty due to sponsorship challenges and disputes with FIDE, potentially leading to relocation.

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The Freestyle Chess Grand Slam Tour, co-founded by world champion Magnus Carlsen and German investor Jan Henric Buettner, is encountering obstacles in securing its New Delhi event, initially scheduled for September 17-24, 2025. Buettner revealed that the India leg remains unconfirmed due to the absence of a suitable investor. He mentioned receiving offers from other cities willing to pay hosting fees, which might lead to relocating the event if a substantial proposal emerges.

The tour, which introduces a novel format by randomizing the initial positions of back-rank pieces, aims to eliminate traditional opening preparations and emphasize player creativity. This approach has garnered attention from top players, including India’s D Gukesh, who is set to participate in the tour’s inaugural leg in Weissenhaus, Germany, from February 7-14, 2025.

However, the tour faces challenges beyond sponsorship. A dispute with the International Chess Federation (FIDE) has arisen, with FIDE expressing concerns that the Freestyle Chess initiative could create divisions within the chess community. FIDE has also asserted its exclusive rights to the World Championship title, leading to tensions between the two organizations.

In light of these developments, the future of the New Delhi leg remains uncertain. Buettner emphasized that without adequate sponsorship, the event might be relocated to another city offering better support. This situation highlights the broader challenges of organizing international chess events, especially when introducing innovative formats that seek to reshape traditional perceptions of the game.

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