Koneru Humpy challenges FIDE to host tournaments in Kashmir after Candidates controversy: 'We do have lavish resorts'

Veteran Indian Grandmaster Koneru Humpy has sparked a major debate in the chess world after withdrawing from the upcoming FIDE Women's Candidates Tournament 2026 and questioning the choice of venue by FIDE.

The tournament, which will decide the challenger for the world chess championship, is scheduled to begin on March 28 in Cyprus. However, Humpy announced on March 22 that she will not take part due to safety concerns.

There is currently a war going on in West Asia, where Israel, with the support of the United States, has attacked Iran and killed its Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Iran has launched retaliatory strikes against America's allies in the region.

According to Humpy, the current situation in the region made it difficult for her to prepare mentally for such an important tournament. Speaking to the Times of India, Humpy said she took the difficult decision after thinking through all aspects, including personal safety.

More from Chess

"It wasn't an impulsive decision. I spent several days thinking through all aspects of professional commitment, personal safety, and my ability to perform at my best. Given the prevailing uncertainties and the overall situation, I felt I would not be able to approach the event with the level of focus and calm that such a tournament demands," Humpy said.

"As a professional athlete, you train for opportunities like this for years. Mentally, it was challenging because I had to weigh factors beyond just chess," she added.

Humpy takes a dig at FIDE

Humpy also questioned whether Cyprus was the right venue for such a major chess event given the ongoing tensions in the region. She pointed out that both the United States and the United Kingdom had issued Level 3 travel advisories, asking travellers to reconsider visiting Cyprus due to regional tensions.

She also took a jibe at FIDE, suggesting that if Cyprus can be considered a suitable option despite travel advisories, then chess tournaments could also be organised in India's Jammu & Kashmir, which is considered a volatile place and receives similar travel warnings due to tensions between India and Pakistan over the region.

"I think decisions like this should take into account not just logistics, but also how players feel. Level 3 Travel Advisory issued by the US and UK Department of State urging travellers to reconsider travel to Cyprus in light of the ongoing tensions and the recent drone attack, I do not feel this can be a sporting venue for such a world-class tournament," Humpy said.

"If they feel [Cyprus] is right, they should also conduct tournaments in places like Jammu & Kashmir, which is also considered as Level 3. We do have beautiful locations, lavish resorts, hotels... is that what we need for a chess tournament?" she added.

Despite Humpy’s withdrawal, India will still have representation in the women’s Candidates Tournament. R Vaishali and Divya Deshmukh will take part in the eight-player event. The winner of the tournament will get the chance to challenge China’s reigning world champion Ju Wenjun for the women’s world title.