FIDE CEO Slams Magnus Carlsen Over Rating Spot Rule Criticism, Proposes Major Overhaul

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A heated debate has erupted in the chess community over the qualification process for the 2026 FIDE Candidates tournament. Hikaru Nakamura secured a spot by meeting the rating requirements, but Magnus Carlsen has criticized the rule, calling it 'wild' and 'insane.' The controversy centers around the 40-game eligibility requirement, which Nakamura fulfilled by participating in smaller tournaments across North America. In a response to Carlsen's comments, FIDE CEO Emil Sutovsky defended the current system, stating that it is unfair to call the qualification process 'wild' when top players like Nakamura are expected to meet the requirements. Sutovsky also proposed eliminating the rating spot altogether for the 2028 Candidates tournament, citing the ease with which players can 'game the system.' The 2026 Candidates tournament is scheduled to take place from March 28 to April 16 at the Cap St Georges Hotel and Resort in Cyprus. The proposed changes to the qualification process are set to be discussed further, with Sutovsky submitting a formal proposal to the FIDE board. The qualification process for the Candidates tournament has long been a topic of debate in the chess community, with many arguing that it favors players who are able to meet the rating requirements through participation in smaller tournaments. The proposed changes are expected to have a significant impact on the qualification process for future tournaments.