Kamal Ghorui
NEW DELHI: Top Indian Grandmaster (GM) Koneru Humpy has pulled out of the 2026 Women’s Candidates Tournament in Cyprus, saying she doesn’t feel safe travelling for the event. Her decision has sparked criticism, especially from the Cyprus Chess Federation.Humpy explained her stance clearly as she wrote on X, “After deep reflection, I have taken the difficult decision to withdraw from the FIDE Women’s Candidates Tournament. No event, no matter how important, can come before personal safety and well-being. Despite the assurances provided, I do not feel fully secure under the current circumstances. This is a painful but necessary decision, and I stand by it.”The tournament, starting March 28, is a major event and the only route to the Women’s World Championship match. Humpy had qualified after finishing runner-up at the 2025 Women’s World Cup. However, concerns linked to regional tensions reportedly influenced her choice.
Strong reaction from organisers
Her withdrawal didn’t go down well with Cyprus Chess Federation President Criton Tornaritis, who publicly criticised her comments. Taking the matter to X, he said, “As President of the Cyprus Chess Federation, I am sincerely disappointed by Koneru Humpy’s decision to withdraw, citing that Cyprus ‘is not safe.”He strongly rejected her claims, adding, “The 2026 Women’s Candidates Tournament is one of the largest and most important chess events in the world. This is simply incorrect. Spreading unfounded concerns harms the sport and shows a lack of respect for the organisers and the players who are participating. At the highest level of chess, decisions are based on calculation and facts, not on fear or misinformation. It was a bad move.”With Humpy out, Ukraine’s Anna Muzychuk will take her place, as already confirmed by FIDE. There could also be consequences, including possible fines under FIDE rules if her reason isn’t accepted. Despite her absence, India will still have representation in the women’s tournament through R Vaishali and Divya Deshmukh. In the open category, R Praggnanandhaa will be the sole flagbearer for India.
