Candidates Chaos: Humpy Koneru Considers Pulling Out Over Iran War Fears FIDE CEO Emil Sutovsky downplayed concerns about the safety of the 2026 Candidates tournament in Cyprus, assuring fans that the event would proceed despite recent regional tensions. The organization had previously addressed worries about the war in Iran and its impact on the Mediterranean, noting that the tournament would be closely monitored but unlikely to be affected. However, this confidence was challenged when Humpy Koneru, a prominent Indian women’s chess grandmaster, voiced her hesitations about participating. Koneru, a two-time Women’s World Rapid Champion and former world title challenger, expressed concerns over the escalating conflict in the region. She highlighted the ongoing drone strikes in Cyprus and the broader instability caused by the war between Israel and Lebanon, involving Hezbollah. “I am a bit hesitant to travel because of this,” she said. “If the situation continues like this, I am really doubtful of my participation.” Koneru emphasized the importance of a safe and stable environment for such a high-profile event. “You should be in a position to play the game in a peaceful and good atmosphere,” she stated. “Not surrounded by bomb or missile sirens. You don’t need to be desperate to hold events in such environments.” She questioned the necessity of holding the tournament in Cyprus, given the risks posed by the ongoing conflict. “When there is a 10 or 20 per cent risk in playing in Cyprus, what was the necessity to hold the event in that place?” she asked. The 38-year-old player, who took a break from competitive chess to start a family, returned to the sport with renewed strength. Her concerns reflect broader anxieties among top players about the safety of traveling to the island.#iran_war #cyprus #fide_ceo #emil_sutovsky #humpy_koneru
