Magnus Carlsen, the world No.1, is eagerly anticipating his match against world champion D Gukesh. The Freestyle Chess Grand Slam Tour kicks off in Weissenhaus, Germany, from February 7-14. Carlsen shared his excitement, and preparation plans for the tournament.
Carlsen vs Gukesh: A Battle of Titans
The Freestyle Chess Grand Slam Tour will feature some of the best chess Grandmasters from around the globe. The highlight of the tournament is the clash between Magnus Carlsen and Gukesh D., the 18-year-old Grandmaster from India who won the World Chess Championship last year. Carlsen, who held the World Chess Championship title since 2013, decided not to defend it in 2022.
Freestyle Chess: A New Challenge
Freestyle Chess, also known as Chess960 or Fischer Random Chess, randomizes the starting positions of the pieces on the back rank. This format eliminates the possibility of remembering openings and promotes creativity. Carlsen mentioned that preparation for Freestyle Chess matches is based on engine games, but he expects it to become easier as more human games are played.
Also Read: Why Praggnanandhaa Misses Freestyle Chess Grand Slam Tour
Carlsen’s Preparation
Carlsen revealed that he has taken a different approach to preparation this year. Unlike last year, when he did extensive training, he has focused on playing Freestyle Chess on chess.com and studying opening charts. He aims to enter the tournament in a more relaxed state and avoid overthinking.
The Road Ahead
The Freestyle Chess Grand Slam Tour will consist of five legs, with the final taking place in December 2025. Carlsen hopes that the tournament will attract younger players and make chess more appealing to them.
Carlsen’s enthusiasm and strategic preparation make this tournament one to watch. Will he be able to outsmart the young talents and claim victory in the Freestyle Chess Grand Slam Tour?
Also Read: “No Longer Required”: Freestyle Chess Tour Drops ‘World Champion’ Title Before Weissenhaus Event
