Henrik Carlsen speaks about the rating issue

This was posted by Magnus’ father Henrik on his blog.

Lastly, a few words about rating.

According to Hans Arild Runde’s live rating at http://chess.liverating.org/ Magnus is unofficially #2 in the World ! (It’s congested up there, he is 7 points behind Anand and just 4 points ahead of number 5 V.Kramnik).

Unfortunately the uncertainty regarding the inclusion of the Aerosvit 2008 tournament in the July list has left FIDE in a bit of a tangle.

With the long history of indecisiveness and policy changes, we do appreciate their attempt to create transparency and clear rules. However, when the Executive Board decision of having a clear deadline made in Antalya in November is accompanied by a very discreet external communication (I had to browse through the minutes twice before finding the reference at page 24 under “Qualification Commission” and I have not seen any other communication or reference at fide.com or any other chess website), by inadequate internal communication (not reaching the relevant persons within FIDE), lack of consistency by making an exception for FIDE events but not for more important top events, and finally the contradicting statements this week from FIDE officials, they have put FIDE in a less than envious position.

Well, July 1st we’ll probably know the outcome 🙂

With the school semester ending simultaneously with the Foros tournament, Magnus is currently enjoying summer vacation and has a full month of relaxation prior to the Biel tournament starting

July 19th.
Henrik Carlsen
Lommedalen, June 22, 2008