Overview

• FIDE's updated guidelines for Samarkand list classic, non-distressed jeans in blue, black or grey as acceptable within a dark business-casual standard.
• The policy applies to the Grand Swiss and Women's Grand Swiss, outlining suits, shirts and closed-toe dress shoes or unicoloured sneakers as other permitted attire.
• President Arkady Dvorkovich framed the move as greater flexibility that maintains professional standards.
• Deputy president Viswanathan Anand cited player consultations, hot weather and long classical time controls as reasons to prioritise comfort.
• Media and players welcomed the clarification, with Arjun Erigaisi planning to wear jeans, and reports suggest the approach could extend to events such as the Goa World Cup.