Hans Moke Niemann shared his opinion on Ian Nepomniachtchi’s comment about Aaron Mendes. Niemann says that FIDE must punish players for insinuations, and calls not to defame fellow chess players.

Hans Moke Niemann

Hans Moke Niemann

American GM

“FIDE must punish players for public accusations and insinuations, especially regarding a 14-year-old. Nepo made similar comments regarding Faustino Oro.

FIDE must set a precedent to prevent this from happening in the future. NBA fines players for complaining about the refs, this is far more extreme in comparison.

If you want to make an accusation, voice it privately to the FIDE ethics commission, don’t defame your fellow chess players, causing irreparable harm.”

14-year-old IM Aaron Mendes defeated Ian Nepomniachtchi at the Titled Tuesday on September 1. Nepo commented on Aaron’s moves on his stream during the event. Nepo considered one of Aaron’s moves in the game suspicious.

Aaron Reeve Mendes is a Canadian chess prodigy. He became the youngest IM in Canadian history at 12 years old. Aaron’s Classical rating is 2340 and he is Canada’s No. 27.

Credit: Lennart Ootes