Koneru Humpy refuses to play in Cyprus tournament, says you cannot compete surrounded by warships

Indian chess star Koneru Humpy has confirmed her decision to withdraw from the upcoming Candidates tournament in Cyprus, citing safety concerns amid the ongoing Gulf conflict. Humpy, a two-time World Rapid champion, emphasised that one cannot compete peacefully while being “surrounded by warships.” She also asserted that she is “not scared” of penalties and is not participating for monetary benefits.

Tournament Location Near Volatile Region

The Candidates tournament, scheduled to begin on 28 March 2026, is set to feature four Indian players, including Humpy. The grandmaster cited the island's proximity to conflict zones as her primary concern. A recent drone strike on a UK base near Cyprus heightened security fears, prompting her withdrawal. Humpy has since been replaced by Ukrainian Grandmaster Anna Muzychuk.

“You can't play surrounded by warships, which are guarding the island,” Humpy told PTI. “If a foreigner like me, and being a woman, has to travel for such an important tournament, how can I play peacefully?”

Not Afraid of Penalties

Humpy stressed that while her withdrawal may attract a financial penalty, she remains unafraid. “That is why they (FIDE) keep these things so that players will not speak out the facts. No, I'm not scared about it. I'm not playing just for money. I just enjoy the sport,” she said.

She revealed that she had invested three months of intense preparation, even at the expense of spending quality time with her daughter.

Tournament Could Have Been Postponed or Relocated

Humpy suggested that the tournament could have been postponed or moved without significant disruption. “They could host the tournament anywhere in the world. Or, if they were particular about holding it in Cyprus, they could have waited for the situation to settle down,” she said.

She also noted that tensions in the region were publicly acknowledged at high levels. “Lebanon and Israel are very close to the island, it's hardly a 20-minute flight from Lebanon. Even the Cyprus president expressed concerns at the European Union about the UK base.”

Full Support from Family and Personal Decision

The chess star confirmed that her family fully supported her decision. She clarified that she had not discussed the matter with her fellow Indian participants, R Praggnanandhaa, R Vaishali, and Divya Deshmukh. “I don't want to talk about anybody else. It's their wish. Everybody has their own interests and concerns. It's my choice and my opinion, and I feel absolutely right,” she said.

Concerns Over Organisers’ Handling of Safety

Humpy criticised the organisers for not consulting participants about their willingness to compete under the circumstances. “No need to divide and rule without knowing each other's intention. Whoever independently asked, they were just told, ‘we are monitoring on a day-to-day basis,’” she explained.

Inputs from PTI