The FIDE World Chess Cup 2023, a 208-player knockout tournament, this year takes place in Baku, Azerbaijan. The location of the favorite chess competition worried Armenian chess players, since the countries have been engaged in a border conflict.
Speaking about his participation in the World Cup, Armenian grandmaster Levon Aronian who now represents the USA, said that he doesn’t feel safe traveling to Baku. However, he suggested competing in the event in a hybrid format, from any location FIDE finds appropriate. As an idea, Aronian suggests to play from FIDE office in Lausanne under any necessary supervision.
Levon’s suggestion came up with different reactions. Some supported his idea to play from Laussane and agreed that FIDE should accept the suggestion, while others pointed out that he has already been in Baku and that he should feel safe in Azerbaijan.
Reactions to Aronian’s tweet:
