I’d argue that it’s not gate keeping. Anyone can get a very cheap pair of smart trousers at a charity shop. I bought a blazer worth £200 in perfect condition for £7 the other day.
I’d argue it’s more of an image issue. They want the tournament to look smart and professional, and whilst I get that, there’s a big movement within the chess community to make the game more attractive to new players, and part of that is to make look less like a “stiff old man’s game”.
In a statement, FIDE said that its regulations, including its dress code, are “designed to ensure professionalism and fairness for all participants.”
Fairness? Nah, that’s to gatekeep who gets in. We all know that.
I’d argue that it’s not gate keeping. Anyone can get a very cheap pair of smart trousers at a charity shop. I bought a blazer worth £200 in perfect condition for £7 the other day.
I’d argue it’s more of an image issue. They want the tournament to look smart and professional, and whilst I get that, there’s a big movement within the chess community to make the game more attractive to new players, and part of that is to make look less like a “stiff old man’s game”.