Levitov on the collapse of the London match
In an interview published today, Ilya Levitov, a FIDE Vice President and the man in charge of the Russian Chess Federation, explains why he believes the plans to hold a World Championship match in London broke down, and also reveals details of the next World Championship cycle.
Kramnik: I don’t have Kasparov’s approach – first place or nothing
Vladimir Kramnik, who had a very bad day at the office in the Tal Memorial first round, was in better form in the interview he gave to Evgeny Surov before it began. His comments on ratings and the World Championship take on extra significance after Carlsen’s shock withdrawal.
Kramnik: “If Topalov becomes champion it will be a disaster for chess”
Kramnik gave a fascinating and controversial interview to Michael Khomich at Sports.ru after winning the Tal Memorial in Moscow.
Kramnik: “One of the toughest games of my whole life”
The Chesspro report on rounds 5 and 6 of the Tal Memorial in Moscow included Kramnik’s reflections on his hard-fought victory over Ponomariov.
Aronian on draws and… “I’m like an animal”
Ilya Odessky’s report at the Tal Memorial website included Aronian disputing the link between draws and dull play, and also surprising the journalists in the press centre with a gnomic utterance.
Malicious rumours that Kramnik’s being helped by Topalov
I can’t resist translating part of the introduction to Sergey Shipov’s on-line commentary on the Morozevich-Kramnik game.
“Magnus’ trainer had clearly not done enough work”
After Magnus Carlsen only survived his first round Tal Memorial game against Kramnik by finding a study-like draw, Kramnik couldn’t resist the temptation to tease Kasparov a little.
