This isn't just another chess tournament though, with a public spat between Carlsen and the promoters of the FCGT with FIDE in the build-up to the tournament.

Freestyle Chess Grand Slam tour boss Jan Henric Buettner and all-time great Magnus Carlsen have called on International Chess Federation (FIDE) president Arkady Dvorkovich to resign after talks over an agreement about the new series fell through.

The International Chess Federation (FIDE) reiterated that no agreement between the sport’s global body and the Freestyle Chess Tour had been reached regarding the use of the ‘World Championship’ term.

“The organizers of the “Freestyle Chess Tour” fully deleted from its Regulations the reference to the “World Championship” title. Following this change in the regulations, players wishing to participate in the 2025 “Freestyle Chess Tour” are no longer required to sign the waiver note,” said the updated FIDE statement.

Fide has been unequivocal about not wanting to part with its sole authority over the ‘World Championship’ title

World No.1 chess player Magnus Carlsen has launched a scathing attack on FIDE president Arkady Dvorkovich, accusing him of abusing his authority and coercing players against Freestyle Chess Grand Slam.

Disagreement over right to regulate any 'World Championship' and waiver for players to appear in unsanctioned league

The International Chess Federation (FIDE) issued a comprehensive statement on Monday following the news that no agreement had been reached between FIDE and Freestyle Chess over the use of the “World Championship.