NEW DELHI: In a move that has sent shockwaves through the global chess community, India’s veteran Grandmaster (GM) and World No. 5 Koneru Humpy has now officially withdrawn from the FIDE Women’s Candidates Tournament in Cyprus.
Citing a “Level 3” travel advisory and escalating tensions in the Middle East, the 38-year-old’s decision, which came late on Sunday evening through a post on X (formerly Twitter), bears a rare sight of a world-class athlete who has prioritised personal security over a direct shot at a World Championship title.
The tournament, set to begin on March 28 at the Cap St Georges Hotel in Pegeia, is the sole gateway to the Women’s World Championship match.
While India still holds a strong hand with R Vaishali and Divya Deshmukh in the fray, the absence of Humpy, the runner-up of the 2025 Women’s World Cup, is being viewed as a massive blow to the nation’s title hopes.
In an exclusive conversation with TimesofIndia.com, Humpy opened up about the “gruelling” mental toll of the decision, the potential fine, and her sharp critique of FIDE’s venue selection.
‘Not an impulsive decision’: Humpy
For Humpy, the road to withdrawal was paved with sleepless nights.
“It wasn’t an impulsive decision. I spent several days thinking through all aspects of professional commitment, personal safety, and my ability to perform at my best,” Humpy told TimesofIndia.com. “Given the prevailing uncertainties and the overall situation, I felt I would not be able to approach the event with the level of focus and calm that such a tournament demands.”
She admitted that the phase was mentally draining. “As a professional athlete, you train for opportunities like this for years. Mentally, it was challenging because I had to weigh factors beyond just chess,” she added.
The Kashmir comparison
Perhaps the most striking part of Humpy’s stand is her critique of Cyprus as a host during a regional conflict.
Pointing to the Level 3 advisories issued by the U.S. and UK, which urge travellers to reconsider travel due to regional tensions and recent drone activity, Humpy questioned FIDE’s lack of flexibility.
“I think decisions like this should take into account not just logistics, but also how players feel,” she argued. “Level 3 Travel Advisory issued by the US and UK Department of State urging travellers to reconsider travel to Cyprus in light of the ongoing tensions and the recent drone attack, I do not feel this can be a sporting venue for such a world-class tournament.”
In a pointed comparison, she added: “If they feel [Cyprus] is right, they should also conduct tournaments in places like Jammu & Kashmir, which is also considered as Level 3. We do have beautiful locations, lavish resorts, hotels… is that what we need for a chess tournament?”
Humpy believes that while the venue may have been fine when initially announced, the shifting geopolitical landscape warranted a shift in FIDE’s strategy.
“Of course, when they announced the tournament, there was no issue. (But) they have to change according to circumstances. They should have asked players openly to share their opinion after the war started,” she asserted.
The financial implications of the withdrawal
Under FIDE regulations, a withdrawal without a “satisfactory reason” can attract a fine of up to €10,000 (approx. Rs 10 lakh).
While the chess world debates whether security concerns constitute a “satisfactory” excuse, Humpy remains unfazed by the financial threat.
“At this stage, my primary concern was taking a decision I could stand by. Matters like fines or penalties are secondary… but I am prepared to deal with whatever comes,” she said.
The sporting cost of the pull-out
Missing this Candidates tournament now means Humpy’s dream of becoming the Women’s World Champion is effectively deferred by years. It is a staggering price to pay for a veteran in the twilight of a legendary career.
“It’s a big cost, there’s no denying that,” Humpy admitted. “But not everything can be measured only in terms of titles. If the conditions are not right to compete at your true level, then being there doesn’t make much sense either.”
Humpy is not alone in her concerns. After Humpy’s decision, US Grandmaster Hikaru Nakamura highlighted the instability in the region, writing on X, “It’s not a good sign when power goes out completely in parts of Cyprus and doesn’t come back for an extended period.”
Furthermore, US Chess recently barred a delegation from the Pan-American Youth in Colombia due to a similar Level 3 advisory, mirroring Humpy’s cautious approach.
While Humpy stays back, the rest of the Indian contingent, R Praggnanandhaa, Vaishali, and Divya Deshmukh, are reportedly proceeding with their travel plans.
READ ALSO: ‘Motherhood not a liability’: How India’s No.1 Koneru Humpy balances chess and family
For the fans who see this as a setback, Humpy offers a message of gratitude: “I understand their disappointment… Representing India is always a matter of pride for me. This decision was not taken lightly, and I hope fans can understand the circumstances.”
