The London Chess Classic is delighted to announce that Viktor Korchnoi, one of the all time greats of world chess has agreed to be the tournament’s Guest of Honour. Korchnoi still plays high level chess at the age of 78 and recently played on board one for Switzerland at the European Team Championship.

Korchnoi  fought two world title matches against Anatoly Karpov in 1978 and 1981 which captured the imagination of the world. A man who had defected from the USSR and made into a non-person took on the might of the Soviet chess machine while his son was imprisoned by the Communist authorities.

Even in defeat Korchnoi has shaped the future of chess. It should not be forgotten that he sportingly agreed to play Garry Kasparov in a Candidates semi final after the Soviets had refused to allow Kasparov to take part in the match after it had been scheduled to take place at Pasadena in 1984. Although he had already won by default,  Korchnoi agreed to play in London and Kasparov eventually won and went on to challenge Anatoly Karpov.

Korchnoi’s longevity at the top level, nearly 50 years, is unparalleled. Visitors to the London Chess Classic which takes place at Olympia from December 8-15 will be able to hear him comment on the games or take on the great man in a simultaneous display at Olympia on Monday 14th at 7pm.

                                       Malcolm Pein (IM), Director London Chess Classic