FIDE revealed on X that several players, and from various countries, have not yet received feedback on their Canadian visa applications submitted many months ago.
Players from India, Russia and Azerbaijan might be affected. In particular, Canada and India suffer from poor relations at this time.
Candidates Chess Tournament 2024 is in danger of being incomplete.
Urgent visa appeal to the Canadian Government regarding the FIDE Candidates Tournament
The most prestigious tournament in the chess world, the FIDE Candidates, which will determine the challengers for the World Champion title in both the Open and Women’s Categories, is set to take place from April 3 – 22 in Toronto, Canada. This is the first time in the history of chess that the most prestigious tournament is due to be hosted in Canada, recognizing the country’s growing role in the chess world.
Regrettably, players from various countries worldwide, who submitted their visa applications few months ago, have not yet received any updates on their status. With only a month remaining till the FIDE Candidates Tournament, there are grave concerns about the timely arrival of the players to Toronto.
Recognizing the popularity of the game in the country, and its growing role in the chess world, we kindly ask the Canadian Government for support in urgently addressing this matter. Ensuring the safe and timely arrival of players is crucial for the success and integrity of the FIDE Candidates Tournament and for promoting Canada as a host of the most important chess tournament of the year, which will be followed by millions of spectators worldwide.
The tournament winner will qualify to play Ding Liren for the World Championship in 2024.
Read more: FIDE has a plan B for the Candidates Tournament
