The International Chess Federation (FIDE) announced on Thursday that an investigation must be launched into allegations of cheating made by world chess champion Magnus Carlsen.
On Monday (26), Carlsen accused the colleague Hans Niemann cheating, saying his rival’s “progress above the board” has been unusual.
“He wasn’t tense or even fully focused on the game in critical positions, as he bested me in a way that I think only a few players can do,” Carlsen said of his loss to Niemann in the Sinquefield Cup.
Niemann admitted to cheating in online chess at age 12 and 16, but insists he never cheated in “over-the-board” games.
FIDE’s Fair Play Commission (FPL) has launched a three-member investigative panel to examine Carlsen’s allegations and Niemann’s statement about online cheating.
“In the best interests of the chess community, we kindly ask the public to refrain from speculation about the results and possible sanctions until all available facts are well considered and a proper investigation is finalized,” said Sanomeja Zaksaite, president of the FPL.
According to FIDE, the panel has the possibility to request consultations with external experts if necessary. “The FPL stands ready to examine the circumstances, compile and analyze all available data and evidence, and ascertain the facts and allegations that have been made public,” said a statement from the federation.
“The panel will ensure a fair decision, protecting the rights of both parties during the investigation.”
THE CNN had already contacted Niemann and Carlsen about the cheating allegations.
speaking to CNN earlier this week, Emil Sutovsky, director general of FIDE, called cheating a “huge problem” in online chess, but added that over-the-board games have long had measures to detect cheating.
“It started with all sorts of scanners and checkups — and it’s not like the metal scanners you use in airports,” Sutovsky said.
“We use them too, but these are just part of an overall picture. We use non-linear scanners, we use transmission delays to minimize the chances [de trapacear], [e] we use fair play officials who physically monitor what players are doing.”
Source: CNN Brasil

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