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19/08–21/0816:00 BST
watch the clash
of blames
Is it reality or grandmasters’ delusion? Let’s find out!

Is it reality or grandmasters’ delusion? Let’s find out!
19/08–21/0816:00 BST
Std 2753 • Rapid 2700 • Blitz 2676
Kramnik
Std 2612 • Rapid 2641 • Blitz 2691
Jospem

How it all started

The event arose from allegations made by Kramnik against Martínez, questioning his performance in online events. These accusations led to a highly publicised showdown, designed to settle the dispute over the board and online (Clash of Claims). The format included 36 blitz games, split evenly between over-the-board (OTB) and online matches.
World Chess is organising Clash of Blames, featuring a rematch between Kramnik and Martínez. This major media-friendly event is taking place in London on August 19 - 21, 2024. The event is expected to answer the key question: whether online cheating is a reality or grandmasters’ delusion.
One of the major controversies surrounding the event was the inadequate performance of Chess.com, the hosting platform, during the online matches. There were significant technical issues, including problems with clock synchronisation and failed software updates, which led to disputes and interruptions during the games (Chess.com).
19 aug
Los Angeles
08:00
Chicago
10:00
New York
11:00
São Paulo
12:00
London
16:00
Dubai
19:00
Mumbai
20:30
Beijing
23:00
Tokyo*
00:00
Sydney*
01:00
20 aug
Los Angeles
08:00
Chicago
10:00
New York
11:00
São Paulo
12:00
London
16:00
Dubai
19:00
Mumbai
20:30
Beijing
23:00
Tokyo*
00:00
Sydney*
01:00
21 aug
Los Angeles
08:00
Chicago
10:00
New York
11:00
São Paulo
12:00
London
16:00
Dubai
19:00
Mumbai
20:30
Beijing
23:00
Tokyo*
00:00
Sydney*
01:00
19 aug
Los Angeles
08:00
Chicago
10:00
New York
11:00
São Paulo
12:00
London
16:00
Dubai
19:00
Mumbai
20:30
Beijing
23:00
Tokyo*
00:00
Sydney*
01:00
20 aug
Los Angeles
08:00
Chicago
10:00
New York
11:00
São Paulo
12:00
London
16:00
Dubai
19:00
Mumbai
20:30
Beijing
23:00
Tokyo*
00:00
Sydney*
01:00
21 aug
Los Angeles
08:00
Chicago
10:00
New York
11:00
São Paulo
12:00
London
16:00
Dubai
19:00
Mumbai
20:30
Beijing
23:00
Tokyo*
00:00
Sydney*
01:00
* the event will be happening on the next day in this city due to the time zone difference

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Useful info

What is the “Clash of Blames” event?
Answer: The “Clash of Blames” is a high-stakes chess tournament aimed at resolving a worldwide chess cheating scandal. Taking place in London from August 19-21, 2024, it features a showdown between former World Chess Champion Vladimir Kramnik and the young grandmaster José Martínez Alcántara. The event seeks to determine whether widespread cheating in online chess is a reality or merely a grandmaster’s suspicion.
When and where will the event take place?
Answer: The “Clash of Blames” will take place from August 19-21, 2024, at Guild Esports in Shoreditch, London. The tournament will be streamed online exclusively via Chessarena.com, the official platform endorsed by FIDE for its advanced anti-cheating measures.
Who are the participants in the “Clash of Blames”?
Answer: The event features two prominent chess players: Vladimir Kramnik, the 14th World Chess Champion, and José Martínez Alcántara, a rising star in the online chess community. This match is a rematch following their controversial encounter in the first “Clash of Claims” tournament in Madrid.
How can I watch the event?
Answer: The “Clash of Blames” event will be streamed live on Chessarena.com and YouTube. To watch the event, simply visit the platform during the scheduled match times. The stream will include live commentary from prominent chess figures and interactive segments for viewers worldwide.
Will there be a live audience at the event?
Answer: No, the event will not be ticketed, and there will be no live audience at the venue. The “Clash of Blames” can only be watched online through the Chessarena.com platform, ensuring that viewers from around the world can witness the event live.
Is there an age limit for watching the event online?
Answer: There is no age limit for watching the event online. Chess enthusiasts of all ages are welcome to tune in to the live stream on Chessarena.com.
What is the format of the “Clash of Blames” matches?
Answer: The tournament consists of a three-day chess showdown between Kramnik and Martínez, both online and offline. There will be 6 online and 6 over-the-board games daily. The participant who gains 18.5 points will win the event.
What are the anti-cheating measures of the event?
Answer: The event will employ strict anti-cheating protocols using the Chessarena.com platform to ensure a fair and transparent competition. Additionally, Pinkerton, a global authority in risk management and security with a 170-year legacy, will work as the official Fair Play Partner. Pinkerton will enforce rigorous checks, including measures like metal detectors, to maintain a cheat-free environment. Their involvement guarantees that no stone is left unturned in safeguarding the event’s integrity, reinforcing the message that cheating will not be tolerated under any circumstances.

How can I stay updated on the event?
Answer: For the latest updates on the “Clash of Blames,” follow World Chess on social media, subscribe to their newsletter, and regularly check the official event page. You’ll find live updates, exclusive content, and behind-the-scenes insights leading up to and during the event.
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