Koneru Humpy

Indian GM

“It just doesn’t make sense. It’s dangerous to travel anywhere near the Middle East right now with all the tension and uncertainty. I don’t think any official body would decide to hold an event in this region at such a time.

I even contacted FIDE about this. But their response was that they are monitoring the situation day by day, but see no objective reasons to move the tournament.

From an organizational point of view, it’s simply the wrong decision. This is one of the most important tournaments, and we’re only talking about 16 top players. Why not consider alternatives and other dates?

Actually, the Candidates Tournament means a lot to me. Perhaps this will even be my last Candidates Tournament. I am already 39 years old, and there is no guarantee that I will qualify again — or that I will even continue my professional career.

I was in a dilemma about whether to withdraw from the tournament because I worked hard for two years to qualify for the Candidates and spent months preparing. I’m following the news closely and consulting with my family and friends. Still, I don’t think it makes sense to risk yourself for one tournament.

If the situation improves and a ceasefire is reached, I will fly via Frankfurt, not Doha. But right now, it doesn’t look like the situation is getting better.

In the end, life is more important than sports.”