This isn't just another chess tournament though, with a public spat between Carlsen and the promoters of the FCGT with FIDE in the build-up to the tournament.

World No. 1 Magnus Carlsen shared a text that FIDE chief Dvorkovich had sent to his father, Henrik, before demanding the Russian's resignation.

The International Chess Federation (FIDE) issued a comprehensive statement on Monday following the news that no agreement had been reached between FIDE and Freestyle Chess over the use of the “World Championship.

World Champion D Gukesh began his campaign at the Freestyle Chess Grand Slam tour with three draws and a lone loss, signalling that he is gradually coming to terms with the new format.

D Gukesh is set to face Magnus Carlsen for the first time since becoming the world champion. Carlsen, one of the greatest players of all time, will face Gukesh in the classical format in Norway Chess 2025.

Magnus Carlsen criticised FIDE after co-founding Freestyle Chess Players Club with Jan Henric Beuttner, which led to a dispute over the term "World Championship". Carlsen supports Beuttner's stance that their new tour shouldn't replace traditional championships but should have its unique format.

Magnus Carlsen faced scathing criticism from Hans Niemann as the FIDE-Freestyle Chess battle keeps escalating leading to a chess war.

Magnus Carlsen questioned the validity of classical chess as a measure of skill, favoring rapid chess. Gukesh acknowledged the quality of their championship match, while Carlsen ruled out a title clash.

If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call 1-800-GAMBLER On Friday, Magnus Carlsen begins his quest to grow the popularity of an alternative chess variant and win the tournament itself.