New Delhi: In a move that has sent shockwaves through the international chess community, India’s veteran Grandmaster (GM) and World No. 5 Conero Hampi has now officially withdrawn from the FIDE Women’s Candidates Tournament in Cyprus. Citing a “level 3” travel advisory and rising tensions in the Middle East, the 38-year-old’s decision, which came via a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday evening, represents a rare sight of a world-class athlete prioritizing personal safety over a direct title shot at the world championships.The tournament, which is scheduled to begin on March 28 at the Cap St Georges Hotel in Pegeia, is the only gateway to the Women’s World Championship match. While India still have a strong presence in the field with R Vaishali and Divya Deshmukh, the absence of 2025 Women’s World Cup runner-up Hampi is seen as a major blow to the country’s title hopes.In an exclusive chat with TimesofIndia.com, Hampi spoke about the “serious” mental damage of the decision, possible fines, and his strong criticism of FIDE’s choice of venue.
‘Not a smart decision’: Hampi
For Hampi, the way back was smooth with sleepless nights.“It was not an impulsive decision. I spent several days thinking about all aspects of professional commitment, personal safety, and ability to perform at my best,” Hampi told TimesofIndia.com. “Given the current uncertainty and the overall situation, I felt that I would not be able to approach the event with the level of focus and composure that the tournament demands.”He admitted that the phase was mentally draining. “As a professional athlete, you train for years for opportunities like this. Mentally, it was challenging because I had to weigh factors beyond just chess,” he added.Also read: ‘Motherhood is not a liability’: How India’s No. 1 Konero Hampi balances chess and family
Comparison of Kashmir
Perhaps the most salient part of Hampi’s position is his criticism of Cyprus as a host during the territorial dispute. Pointing to Level 3 advisories issued by the US and UK, which urge travelers to reconsider travel due to regional tensions and recent drone activity, Hampi questioned FIDE’s lack of flexibility.“I think decisions like this have to take into account not only the logistics but also how the players feel.” “A Level 3 travel advisory issued by the US and UK State Departments urges travelers to reconsider travel to Cyprus in light of the ongoing tensions and recent drone attack, which I do not think is a suitable sporting venue for such a world-class tournament.”In a pointed comparison, he added: “If they feel [Cyprus] Well, they should also hold tournaments in places like Jammu and Kashmir, which is also considered level 3. We have beautiful locations, wonderful resorts, hotels… is that what we need for a chess tournament?”Hampi believes the venue may have been fine when initially announced, but the changing geopolitical landscape has warranted a change in FIDE’s strategy. “Of course, there was no problem when they announced the tournament. (But) they have to change according to the situation. They should have openly asked the players to give their opinion after the war started,” he asserted.
Financial implications of withdrawal
Under FIDE regulations, withdrawal without “satisfactory reason” can be fined up to €10,000 (roughly Rs. 1 million). While the chess world debates whether security concerns are a “satisfactory” excuse, Hampi is immune to financial risk.“At this stage, my main concern was to stick to the decision.
The game value of the pullout
The aspirants missing out on the tournament means that Hampi’s dream of becoming the women’s world champion has been put on hold for years. It’s a staggering price to pay for a veteran in the twilight of a legendary career.“It’s a huge price, there’s no denying it,” Hampi admitted. “But not everything can be measured by titles alone. If the conditions aren’t right for you to compete at your true level, there’s no point in even being there.”Hampi is not alone in its concerns. After the Hampi verdict, American Grandmaster Hikaru Nakamura highlighted the instability in the region, writing on X, “It is not a good sign when some parts of Cyprus lose power completely and do not return for a long time.” Additionally, US Chess recently blocked the Pan American Youth delegation in Colombia due to a similar Level 3 advisory, reflecting Hampi’s cautious approach.While Hampi is staying back, the rest of the Indian contingent, R Praganananda, Vaishali, and Divya Deshmukh, are reportedly going ahead with their travel plans.
For the fans who felt it was a setback, Hampi offered a message of thanks: “I understand their disappointment… It has always been an honor for me to represent India. This decision was not taken lightly, and I hope the fans can understand the situation.”
