India, Nov. 5 -- The Chess World Cup 2025 is currently underway in Goa, and fans have even had the opportunity to see D Gukesh in action. However, one name is sorely missing from the showpiece event, and that is Magnus Carlsen. The World No. 1 and arguably greatest of the current generation skipped the tournament and won't be challenging Gukesh for the World C'ship title next year.

Carlsen has criticised FIDE's handling of classical chess, the format used at the World Cup and World C'ship. He is not in good terms with FIDE, especially after taking the side of Freestyle Chess. Meanwhile, he also refused to defend his title in 2023, and Ding Liren ultimately claimed it. Liren lost to Gukesh last year.

Meanwhile, even Hikaru Nakamura and F...