Nepomniachtchi was upset because of Carlsen’s refusal to defend the world title

Russian grandmaster Ian Nepomniachtchi, who will fight for the chess crown in April, is upset that the match will not take place against the current world champion Magnus Carlsen.

— After the candidates tournament, you crossed paths with Magnus many times. How much is the discussed topic of his rejection between you?

— Oddly enough, we only talked about it online. He didn’t tell me anything different from what he said in interviews or various podcasts. In this regard, Magnus is quite frank. Therefore, I cannot say that he has some secret motivation, which he did not share with the whole world, but shared with me. It is clear that I was not happy with his decision. But what can I do?,- said Nepomniachtchi.