Kramnik's absence due to short-term sickness
Within the framework of the 49th International Dortmund Chess Days, the tournament was to start today, Monday, 18 July, with the game between Vladimir Kramnik and Viswanathan Anand. Before the start of the event, Kramnik experienced health problems, so he had himself tested for an infection and was found to be COVID-19 positive. He immediately isolated himself and will therefore not take part in the NC World Masters of the Sparkassen Chess Trophy. The event team wishes him a good and speedy recovery!
In the German Grand Prix, Dmitrij Kollars was to play his first game today in the Gold Hall of the Congress Centre Westfalenhallen. The young German national player, who achieved an excellent second place in last year's Grandmaster tournament, now moves up to the NC World Masters for Vladimir Kramnik. This will give him the chance to compete with World Champion Viswanathan Anand, Michael Adams and Daniel Fridman in classical chess with the usual rules, only without the possibility of castling. The game against Anand, which was scheduled for today, will be played on a Thursday.
On the other hand, the Dutch 2600 grandmaster Erwin L'Ami will stand in for Dmitrij Kollars in the German Grand Prix.
"We regret the situation very much. However, we thank all those involved for their flexibility in order to be able to continue the exciting event with all its competitions" says event director Carsten Hensel.
This means that the official opening move of the event will be made today at the board by Michael Adams and Daniel Fridman. The first move of the NC World Masters will be made jointly by: Barbara Brunsing (Mayor of the City of Dortmund) and Peter Orth (Chairman of Sparkasse Dortmund).