‘Would you conduct tournaments in Jammu and Kashmir?': Koneru Humpy questions FIDE over Candidates venue logic

Koneru Humpy, who recently withdrew from the upcoming Women's Candidates 2026, had a blunt suggestion for FIDE.

Published on: Mar 23, 2026, 20:35:53 IST

Written by Neelav Chakravarti

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With FIDE refusing to change their venue for the upcoming Women's Candidates 2026, Koneru Humpy had a simple question for the international chess federation. The Indian GM, who withdrew from the event on Sunday due to safety concerns, asked FIDE whether it would conduct tournaments in Jammu and Kashmir, which is in the same category as Cyprus under the Level 3 Travel Advisory issued by the US and UK Department of State to travellers.

Koneru Humpy pulled out of the upcoming Women's Candidates 2026, which is going to be held in Cyprus. (FIDE)

The tournament is set to be held in Cyprus, along with the men's competition. Cyprus is in proximity to the ongoing Gulf conflict, and on March 1, a British airbase was hit in the island country.

Also Read: FIDE confirm Koneru Humpy's replacement after Indian GM withdraws from Women's Candidates 2026 due to security concerns

Questioning whether FIDE really cared about players' views on the venue, she bluntly stated that Cyprus should not be a sporting venue for such a world-class tournament, given the current situation.

‘They should also conduct tournaments in places like Jammu & Kashmir’: Koneru Humpy

Speaking to the Times of India, she said, "I think decisions like this should take into account not just logistics, but also how players feel. Level 3 Travel Advisory issued by the US and UK Department of State urging travellers to reconsider travel to Cyprus in light of the ongoing tensions and the recent drone attack, I do not feel this can be a sporting venue for such a world-class tournament," she said.

She added, "If they feel [Cyprus] is right, they should also conduct tournaments in places like Jammu & Kashmir, which is also considered as Level 3. We do have beautiful locations, lavish resorts, hotels… is that what we need for a chess tournament?"

FIDE has announced Anna Muzychuk as her replacement. Other than Muzychuk, the other GMs taking part are R Vaishali, Divya Deshmukh, Zhu Jiner, Aleksandra Goryachkina, Tan Zhongyi, Kateryna Lagno, Bibisara Assaubayeva.

Even Hikaru Nakamura, who will be in action in the men's category, questioned the venue on X, citing recent power outages in the country. Meanwhile, FIDE CEO Emil Sutovsky has publicly claimed that the benue won't be changed, pointing out that Cyprus is not directly involved in the conflict.

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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