Returning to the case, Carlsen described the referee’s and organizers’ decision not to pair him for the 9th round of the rapid as “incredibly harsh”, insisting on the strict application of the rules. He criticized this rigid interpretation of the dress code and felt that such inflexibility was contrary to common sense. While acknowledging the importance of maintaining a professional appearance, he stressed that his attire was appropriate.
The champion revealed that he had intended to leave New York immediately after this incident, but that his father advised him to take advantage that there was no urgency to make a final decision. Finally, discussions with FIDE President Dvorkovich, who dismissed his General Manager Sutovsky – who gave his version here – by relaxing the dress code, allowing Carlsen to play the blitz tournament in jeans:
It’s still necessary to follow the official dress code, but slight elegant variations (which may include jeans to match the jacket, for example) are allowed. After all, it’s New Year’s Eve, and I sincerely hope no one will try to undermine the festive atmosphere by abusing this extra flexibility.
Links
