Dubai: The last in-person World Chess Championship took place 1,090 days ago. Meanwhile, the ancient game has had a modern resurrection, fueled by technological advancements with a significant shift in how virtual platforms have enlarged the chess community to new heights, as well as the influence of a popular Netflix series about chess and increased involvement in the game.
Magnus Carlsen of Norway will defend his game’s greatest championship against challenger Ian Nepomniachtchi of Russia starting this week, after a long wait from November 26. The championship match, which was initially slated for December, will now take place in Dubai during Expo 2020, a modern-day world’s fair. The first game is set for Friday, and the best-of-14 series may last up to three weeks.
Since 2013, the 30-year old Carlsen, has held the title of world champion. Nepomniachtchi, 31, gained the chance to challenge him for the championship by winning the Candidates Tournament in April – a tournament that lasted 13 months due to COVID-19 setbacks. Carlsen has been the world’s No. 1 chess player for a decade, while Nepomniachtchi (“Nepo”) is ranked No. 5.
Carlsen has been world champion since 2013
Magnus Carlsen’s world chess titles, with his record by opponent
