ircrehab.com – News Features & Broad Perspectives

India’s Divya Deshmukh sparked laughs with her “No jeans!” rule-change joke, recalling Magnus Carlsen’s 2024 dress code controversy. Carlsen famously refused to change his Corneliani jeans, was fined, and later auctioned them for $36,100. Proceeds went to Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, turning a quirky chess moment into a powerful charitable milestone.

Chess legends Viswanathan Anand and Garry Kasparov are set to reignite their historic rivalry in St. Louis this October, headlining the Clutch Chess series. Adding to the excitement, current world champion D Gukesh will face off against Magnus Carlsen. Kasparov, while acknowledging Gukesh's title win, suggests Carlsen remains the strongest player, sparking debate about the current world championship landscape.

Garry Kasparov ignited controversy by suggesting Gukesh's world title lacks the prestige of past champions, despite Gukesh winning fairly. He implied Magnus Carlsen's era redefined the title's significance, prompting strong defence from Susan Polgar, who highlighted Gukesh's Candidates Tournament victory and criticised double standards. Gukesh continues to face intense scrutiny as he competes in the Sinquefield Cup.

Anish Giri criticized Ian Nepomniachtchi and Hikaru Nakamura over their protest at the FIDE World Rapid and Blitz Teams event, questioning their sense of entitlement after arriving late and replaying games. Nepo and Nakamura fired back with sarcastic remarks, while Giri insisted he only reacts strongly to perceived injustice.

After Magnus Carlsen’s table-slam went viral following a loss to D Gukesh, R Praggnanandhaa called it an instinctive reaction — not ideal, but good for chess visibility. While praising Carlsen as the best, Praggnanandhaa reflected on his own breakthrough year, having won three major titles and rising to World No. 4 as he eyes a Candidates spot.

The International Chess Federation (FIDE) has intervened in the dispute between Vladimir Kramnik and David Navara. FIDE expresses concern over the impact of Kramnik's accusations. It supports Navara and asks Kramnik to withdraw his defamation lawsuit. Levon Aronian has also appealed to Kramnik for reconciliation. FIDE emphasizes fairness and unity within the chess community.

In a public plea, Armenian chess grandmaster Levon Aronian has urged Vladimir Kramnik, a former World Champion, to reconcile amidst a defamation lawsuit. Aronian's letter, shared on social media, expresses deep respect for Kramnik, acknowledging his significant influence. This follows Kramnik's lawsuit against Chessdom, GM David Navara, and others, stemming from disputes over alleged online cheating.

Anish Giri's witty remark on Praggnanandhaa becoming the World No.1 junior highlights the rise of young chess talents. Praggnanandhaa's UzChess Cup Masters 2025 victory, propelling him to World No.4 and India's top player, showcases his dominance. His dramatic win, praised by Viswanathan Anand, underscores his impressive character and solidifies his position as a leading force in chess.