Chief arbiter lifts lid on Magnus Carlsen vs Hans Niemann cheating scandal: ‘No evidence that he cheated’

An upcoming Netflix documentary has once again reminded fans of Magnus Carlsen's infamous cheating scandal against Hans Niemann in 2022.

Updated on: Mar 14, 2026, 17:33:34 IST

Written by Neelav Chakravarti

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Chris Bird, who was the chief arbiter during Magnus Carlsen's infamous game against Hans Niemann, broke his silence on the 2022 Sinquefield Cup cheating controversy. Carlsen accused Niemann of cheating after losing to the American in the third round of the tournament.

The cheating controversy is now being portrayed in an upcoming Netflix documentary.

In reaction, the Norwegian dropped out of the tournament and in their next showdown, an online competition, he resigned after only one move. After he dropped out of the Sinquefield Cup, many felt the Norwegian was hinting that Niemann had cheated, and this suspicion intensified after he resigned.

Also Read: D Gukesh faces ‘very big question mark’ over World Chess Championship defence, says Judit Polgar

‘No evidence’: Chief arbiter

Tony Rich, executive director of the Saint Louis Club, where the tournament is hosted, claimed that there was no formal complaint made in writing, hinting at Niemann cheating. Meanwhile, Bird also publicly stated that there was no indication or evidence of cheating.

Taking to X, Bird wrote, "It's sad to say but even to this day one of the most common questions I get asked when folks find out I was the Chief Arbiter of "the game" is do I think Hans was cheating? I've seen no evidence that Hans cheated in this game, or any event I've overseen that he has played in."

Later in the 2022 tournament, Niemann also gave an interview, where he spoke about the controversy and revealed that he had cheated in online chess in the past, but denied doing so in the game with Carlsen or in any over-the-board game. Meanwhile, Carlsen also later released a statement, claiming that Niemann's behaviour during their game and earlier suspicions led him to withdraw.

Many fans also accused Niemann of using anal beads to cheat in the game against Carlsen. In a podcast with Joe Rogan, Carlsen revealed that he didn't believe in the anal beads theory.

The cheating controversy is now being portrayed in an upcoming Netflix documentary, in which both Carlsen and Niemann will share their perspectives.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Neelav Chakravarti
Neelav Chakravarti has been part of the digital sports team at Hindustan Times since 2022, where he covers a wide range of disciplines, including chess, cricket, football, and Olympic sports. Working in a fast-paced digital newsroom, he regularly handles live blogs, breaking updates, and trending stories, combining speed with clarity to keep readers informed in real time. Chess remains both a professional beat and a personal passion for Neelav, and he closely tracks major international tournaments, player narratives, and emerging talents. He is particularly fascinated by the patience, calculation, and strategic depth the game demands, often exploring the psychological side of competition in his writing. Beyond sports journalism, Neelav has a deep interest in visual storytelling and filmmaking, actively participating in film festivals and engaging with independent cinema. He is especially drawn to films that capture the subtleties of everyday life and human relationships, appreciating storytelling that balances realism with emotional depth. This creative interest complements his approach to sports coverage, where he enjoys highlighting the human stories behind performances and results. A history enthusiast by academic training, Neelav holds a bachelor’s degree in the subject and maintains a sustained interest in ancient and medieval Indian history, particularly in cultural and social transitions across eras. His curiosity about the past often shapes his perspective on contemporary narratives and long-form storytelling. When he isn’t tracking scores or developing storylines, Neelav enjoys spending time over the chessboard, relaxing with his cats, or listening to the Empire podcast by Anita Anand and William Dalrymple. He also enjoys reading long-form sports writing that explores the emotional and cultural layers of sport, while maintaining a quiet routine that balances reading, reflection, and occasional time with friends.Read More

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