Magnus Carlsen Eyeing A FIDE Comeback? 'Maybe' Says Former World Champion

Last Updated:October 16, 2025, 16:33 IST

Magnus Carlsen discussed his evolving stance on FIDE events, fatherhood, and the 2025 World Rapid and Blitz Championships on the TakeTakeTake podcast.

Magnus Carlsen (AFP)

Magnus Carlsen’s complicated relationship with FIDE — chess’s global governing body — has been one of the most talked-about sagas in modern chess.

Ever since the Norwegian grandmaster relinquished his World Championship crown in 2023, he has distanced himself from FIDE’s marquee events, often citing disillusionment with the title format and tournament politics.

But now, the five-time World Champion and new father seems to be softening his stance.

Speaking on the TakeTakeTake podcast, Carlsen revealed that a return to FIDE competitions — particularly the 2025 World Rapid and Blitz Championships — is not entirely off the table.

“It’s gone from, like, a very, very clear no to a maybe," Carlsen admitted.

From Jeans to Redemption: The 2024 Rapid & Blitz Controversy

Carlsen’s remarks come months after a headline-grabbing incident at the previous World Rapid and Blitz event — dubbed “Jeangate" by fans — where he was fined $200 for refusing to change out of his jeans before play.

The Norwegian withdrew from the Rapid section in protest, remarking:

“Honestly, I’m too old at this point to care too much. Nobody wants to back down… I’ll probably head off somewhere where the weather is nicer."

Eventually, Carlsen reconciled with FIDE officials and returned to win the World Blitz title, sharing the crown with Russia’s Ian Nepomniachtchi.

The “jeans" in question later went viral after Carlsen auctioned them for roughly $36,100 (₹31 lakh).

A New Chapter: Fatherhood and Fresh Motivation

Now 34 and recently welcoming his first child with partner Ella Victoria, Carlsen says fatherhood has given him a new perspective — and perhaps a renewed sense of balance.

“It’s different, of course, but I’m enjoying every moment of it. I think we’re a very good team and getting good help as well," he said.

Carlsen also acknowledged that while his motivation fluctuates, the fire to compete remains.

“Yeah, I still want to compete. I’m still a chess player. With age and this new era in my life, motivation will go up and down — but I love playing, and my wife is very understanding."

Siddarth Sriram

After training in the field of broadcast media, Siddarth, as a sub-editor for News18 Sports, currently dabbles in putting together stories, from across a plethora of sports, onto a digital canvas. His long-term...Read More

After training in the field of broadcast media, Siddarth, as a sub-editor for News18 Sports, currently dabbles in putting together stories, from across a plethora of sports, onto a digital canvas. His long-term...

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News sports Magnus Carlsen Eyeing A FIDE Comeback? 'Maybe' Says Former World Champion

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