Paphos, Cyprus. Indian grandmaster Koneru Humpy has withdrawn from the 2026 women’s candidates’ chess tournament in Cyprus, citing safety concerns linked to regional instability and travel disruptions. Ukrainian grandmaster Anna Muzychuk will replace her.
Withdrawal and replacement
Humpy said in a statement issued on X on Monday that “no event, no matter how important, can come before personal safety and well-being,” pointing to regional instability and disruptions to travel as key reasons for her decision. Organisers confirmed that Muzychuk will take her place in the field.
Event schedule and venue
The tournament is scheduled to run from March 28 to April 16 at the Cap St Georges Hotel in Paphos and forms part of the qualifying cycle for the World Chess Championship.
Relocation offer and tournament status
The withdrawal came despite an offer from German billionaire and event sponsor Wadim Rosenstein to relocate the tournament to Germany and cover all logistical costs to guarantee safety. The International Chess Federation (Fide) confirmed the event will proceed in Cyprus as planned.
Security measures and organiser comments
Organisers said strict measures are in place to protect participants, including controlled access to venues and coordination with local authorities. Cap St Georges Hotel CEO George Ioannou described the tournament as “a turning point for chess on the island” and pledged a secure and smoothly run event.
Format and stakes
The tournament will be played under strict rules, including no early draws before the 41st move and rapid play-offs if no winner emerges after 14 rounds. Victors will earn the right to challenge reigning world champions.
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