With less than a week to go for the much-anticipated Candidates Tournament in Cyprus, fresh concerns have emerged around the venue—this time sparked by a warning from American Grandmaster Hikaru Nakamura.
The tournament, scheduled to begin on March 28 with the first round on March 29, is set to be held in Paphos. It will determine the challengers for reigning world champions D Gukesh and Ju Wenjun. But instead of building excitement, the lead-up has been overshadowed by unease.
Power Outage Raises Fresh Questions
Nakamura, among the top contenders for the title, took to social media over the weekend to highlight a prolonged power outage in parts of Cyprus. He suggested that such disruptions so close to a global event were hardly reassuring, especially when players are preparing for one of the most critical tournaments in the chess calendar.
His remarks, though brief, have amplified an already simmering debate about whether Cyprus is the right venue under current circumstances.
Security Concerns Add to Unease
The anxiety isn’t new. The broader geopolitical tensions in West Asia have already cast a shadow over the event. Earlier this month, a British air base on the island was reportedly targeted, intensifying fears about regional stability.
While Cyprus itself remains outside the direct conflict zone, its proximity has made players and observers uneasy. The situation has prompted questions about both safety and preparedness—particularly with infrastructure issues now entering the conversation.
Players Voice Reservations
Concerns are not limited to Nakamura. Veteran Indian Grandmaster Koneru Humpy had earlier indicated she was reconsidering her participation, suggesting that risking personal safety for a single tournament may not be worth it.
Her hesitation reflects a broader sentiment among some players who are quietly weighing the risks, even as the event draws closer.
FIDE Stands Firm on Decision
Despite the growing chatter, the global governing body FIDE has maintained a steady stance. Officials believe there is no immediate threat significant enough to warrant a shift in venue or schedule.
FIDE leadership has indicated that while uncertainties can never be entirely ruled out, the current assessment does not justify drastic changes. Preparations, they insist, are continuing as planned.
A Tournament Under a Cloud
The Candidates Tournament is traditionally a celebration of elite chess—where the world’s best compete for a shot at the crown. This year, however, the narrative feels different.
Instead of purely focusing on over-the-board battles, conversations are drifting toward safety, stability, and now even basic infrastructure. Whether these concerns fade once the games begin—or continue to linger—remains to be seen.
For now, the spotlight is as much on Cyprus as it is on the players preparing to make their next move.
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