As FIDE bans sneakers, chess player vents frustration at ‘level of ignorance’

A year after she was fined 100 euros FIDE for wearing what the organization’s arbiters deemed “sports shoes”, Dutch chess player and popular streamer Anna-Maja Kazarian has slammed the global governing body for the sport for formally banning sneakers at this year’s FIDE Rapid and Blitz tournament.
“Seems like FIDE doubled-down after last year’s mess: NO sneakers allowed at all at the World Rapid & Blitz! It’s very frustrating to see the level of ignorance and old-fashioned standards,” posted Kazarian on Twitter.
She also shared images from a FIDE guide presentation for players which had a chapter called: “Dress for Chess to Impress.” It had photographs showing “guiding samples of approved outfits” and what not to wear. Under the second category, the guidelines had images of sneakers, jeans, T-shirts and torn clothing.
“The dress code for the playing venue is Smart Business Attire, aiming for a balance between professionalism and comfort. This allows for individual expression while maintaining a consent level of elegance,” said the presentation prepared grandmaster Ahmed Adly, who is the chairman of FIDE Athletes Commission.
What’s the dress code for FIDE World Rapid and Blitz
It added that for men, the dress code would mean: Suits, trousers, long-sleeve or short-sleeve shirts, polo-shirts, shoes, loafers, jackets, vests, sweaters, or national traditional dress (with prior approval from the FIDE Technical Delegate). For women players it would mean the following: Suits, dresses, skirts, blouses, turtlenecks, shirts or polos, trousers or slacks, jackets, vests, sweaters, scarves, footwear (boots, flats, mid-heel or high-heel shoes), and jewelry (earrings, necklaces, etc.), as well as national costumes clothing (with prior approval from the FIDE Technical Delegate).
“At the FIDE World Rapid and Blitz Championships, we encourage players, officials, and staff to embrace a dress code that reflects the prestige and elegance of this global chess event. It’s about creating a positive and inspiring image for chess, showcasing a level of professionalism that aligns with the high caliber of competition,” said the presentation.
FIDE said that it will fine players €200 in the open section and €100 for women’s events. For the first infringement, the player is allowed to play the current round. But for the second infringement, a player will be excluded from the pairings for the next round.

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