The President of the Cypruss Chess Federation criticizes the withdrawal of Humpy Koneru from Candidates
With the Candidates Chess 2026 starting this week in Paphsos, Cyprus, tension around the tournament is rising. At stake is not only the challenger’s spot, but also the smooth running of the tournament. Humpy Koneru shared she does not feel safe there and withdrew from the women section of the event. In a TOI exclusive, Humpy Koneru said, “If [FIDE] feels Cyprus is right [for the Candidates], they should also conduct tournaments in places like Jammu & Kashmir”
Criton Tornaritis, President of the Cyprus Chess Federation, comments, “I am genuinely disappointed by Koneru Humpy’s decision to withdraw, citing that Cyprus “is not safe.” The 2026 Women’s Candidates Tournament is one of the largest and most important chess events in the world. This is simply incorrect.” Tornaritis continues, “Spreading unfounded concerns harms the sport and shows a lack of respect toward the organizers and the players who are participating. At the highest level of chess, decisions are based on calculation and facts, not fear or misinformation. It was a bad move.“
More on the Candidates: Candidates Chess 2026 live games / Participants / Who qualifies if a player withdraws?