Former world chess champion Viswanathan Anand’s decision to pull out of the Freestyle Chess Grand Slam in Germany has dashed any prospects of a reconciliation between FIDE and the Freestyle Chess community in India. The rift between the two factions widened following a disagreement over a dress code issue involving Magnus Carlsen, where Anand firmly stood by FIDE regulations. Despite attempts at behind-the-scenes negotiations, Freestyle players opted to establish their own “Freestyle Chess Champion,” effectively undermining FIDE’s jurisdiction and authority in the matter. Anand’s withdrawal from the prestigious event has not only highlighted the ongoing power struggle within the chess community but has also raised questions about the future of Freestyle Chess in India. The move is seen as a significant setback for efforts to bridge the divide between traditional chess organizations and the growing popularity of alternative chess formats. The Freestyle Chess Grand Slam was expected to be a platform for unity and collaboration, but Anand’s absence has instead exposed the deep-rooted differences and tensions that exist within the chess world. As both sides grapple with the aftermath of this latest development, the future of Freestyle Chess in India remains uncertain, with the community now facing a critical juncture in its evolution.