Russian grandmaster Sergey Karyakin telegraph channel He posted a video in which he said he refused to perform at the World Cup without a flag and without anthem.
“I received an invitation from FIDE to participate in the World Cup. The truth is that I will not be able to represent my country in the upcoming tournament, play under my own flag, and hear the Russian anthem in case of a successful performance. Accordingly, I am categorically against it, my stance does not change, I have said it many times” Karyakin continued his words as follows:
Karjakin was unable to participate in the 2022 Candidates’ Tournament as he was disqualified for his support of Russia’s special military operation in Ukraine. After his suspension ended, Karjakin did not return to major competitions, focusing on social and administrative activities. He fought for the presidency of the Russian Chess Federation (RCF) at the end of 2022, but lost in the election to the current head of the organization, Andrei Filatov. In 2023, Karjakin headed the Moscow Region Chess Federation (FSHP).
Igor Levitov, former founder of Levitov Chess spoke About Sergey Karyakin.