Magnus Carlsen has revealed the reason why he loves the freestyle chess format. Carlsen was speaking on the sidelines of the 2025 Freestyle Chess Grand Slam, which he co-founded with Jan Henric Buettner in March 2024.

D Gukesh and Magnus Carlsen are currently participating at the first leg of the Freestyle Chess Grand Slam Tour.

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.

Magnus Carlsen questioned the validity of classical chess as a measure of skill, favoring rapid chess. Gukesh acknowledged the quality of their championship match, while Carlsen ruled out a title clash.

Niemann has been involved in a public feud with Carlsen since the five-time world champion accused his American opponent of cheating in the Sinquefield Cup in 2022.

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.

Talking about the bitter battle between FIDE and Freestyle Chess, Carlsen said: “Right now it is very hard to have a relationship with any of the FIDE leadership. Speaking for myself and my father.”

If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call 1-800-GAMBLER On Friday, Magnus Carlsen begins his quest to grow the popularity of an alternative chess variant and win the tournament itself.