GOA: Russian Grandmaster Ian Nepomniachtchi triggered a major controversy at the FIDE World Cup after leaving the venue and checking out of his hotel within an hour of his elimination on Thursday. The two-time World Championship challenger lost 0.5-1.5 to Indian GM Diptayan Ghosh in round 2 and exited the tournament visibly frustrated with what he described as poor event conditions.
A video shared online showed the 35-year-old being escorted out of the playing hall by security before departing with his luggage in a cab. A message circulated on his Telegram channel suggested he was dissatisfied with the organisation, noting that his previous experience playing in India had not prepared him for the issues he said he encountered at this event. The defeat also means Nepomniachtchi, the reigning World Blitz champion, will miss the Candidates Tournament for the first time in five years, ending Russia’s long-running presence in the event.
Ghosh, ranked far below Nepomniachtchi, said the victory was the biggest moment of his career and admitted he was surprised to win the match without needing tie-break games. His upset win drew praise across Indian chess circles.
Nepomniachtchi’s sudden departure and public remarks prompted sharp criticism from international players. Scottish GM Jacob Aagaard said the Russian’s exit from both the tournament and the world’s top 20 reflected a familiar lack of grace, adding that his behaviour and declining form were costing him support within the chess world.
The Russian GM has been no stranger to controversy in recent months. Last year, he shared the World Blitz title with Magnus Carlsen after the final ended in a tie, a rare outcome that drew debate over whether such titles should ever be shared.
The day also produced dramatic results for Indian competitors. Vidit Gujrathi advanced after defeating 12-year-old Argentine prodigy Oro Faustino, often referred to as the “Messi of chess.” Meanwhile, Nihal Sarin suffered a heartbreaking exit after missing several winning chances against Greek GM Kourkoulos-Arditis Stamatis, who eventually capitalised on the errors. Aravindh Chithambaram also bowed out after losing to compatriot K Venkatramanan in rapid tie-breaks.
Other Indian results included wins for P Harikrishna and M Pranesh, while matches involving R Praggnanandhaa, Murali Karthikeyan and S L Narayanan ended in draws as round 2 concluded.
