Dutch chess player and popular streamer Anna-Maja Kazarian criticized the world governing body for the game for formally banning sneakers at this year’s FIDE Rapids, a year after the organization’s arbiters were fined 100 euros by FIDE for wearing “sports shoes.” and blitz tournaments.
“Looks like FIDE has doubled down after last year’s mess: no sneakers allowed in World Rapid and Blitz! It’s very disappointing to see this level of ignorance and old-fashionedness,” Kazarian posted on Twitter.
He also shared images from the presentation of the FIDE Guide for Players which included a chapter: “Dress for Chess to Impress.” It contained “guidance samples of approved outfits” and photographs showing what not to wear. Under the second category, the guidelines included images of sneakers, jeans, T-shirts and torn clothing.
“The dress code for the venue is smart business attire, aiming for a balance between professionalism and comfort. It allows for individual expression while maintaining a consistent level of elegance,” said the presentation prepared by Grandmaster Ahmed Adli, president of the FIDE Athletes’ Commission.
What is the dress code for FIDE World Rapid and Blitz?
It is added that for men, the dress code means: suit, trousers, long-sleeved or short-sleeved shirt, polo-shirt, shoes, loafers, jacket, vest, sweater, or national traditional dress (with prior approval from FIDE). technical representative). For female players this would mean: suit, dress, skirt, blouse, turtleneck, shirt or polo, trousers or slacks, jacket, vest, sweater, scarf, footwear (shoes, flats, mid-heel or high-heeled shoes), and Jewelry (earrings, necklaces, etc.), as well as national dress clothing (with prior approval from the FIDE technical representative).
“At the FIDE World Rapid and Blitz Championship, we encourage players, officials and staff to embrace a dress code that reflects the prestige and grandeur of this global chess tournament. It is about creating a positive and inspiring image for chess, demonstrating a level of professionalism that matches the high caliber of competition,” the presentation said.
FIDE said players would be fined €200 in the open section and €100 in the women’s events. For the first violation, the player is allowed to play the current round. But for a second violation, a player will be out of the pairing for the next round.
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