This isn't just another chess tournament though, with a public spat between Carlsen and the promoters of the FCGT with FIDE in the build-up to the tournament.

Freestyle Chess Grand Slam tour boss Jan Henric Buettner and all-time great Magnus Carlsen have called on International Chess Federation (FIDE) president Arkady Dvorkovich to resign after talks over an agreement about the new series fell through.

World No.1 Magnus Carlsen spoke about playing against world champion D Gukesh and his preparation ahead of the Freestyle Chess Grand Slam Tour that starts in Germany with the first leg form 7-14 February.

The five-tournament series will unfold through the year, with Paris, New York, New Delhi and Cape Town being the other four host cities. It will end with the final competition from December 5 to 12

Disagreement over right to regulate any 'World Championship' and waiver for players to appear in unsanctioned league

Further talks with Fide futile, says Freestyle Chess promoter Jan Buettner; Fide says Freestyle Chess refused to acknowledge its status as sole regulator of the World Championships

Arkady Dvorkovich is under fire after talks over an agreement about the new series fell through. Read more at straitstimes.com.

Talking about the bitter battle between FIDE and Freestyle Chess, Carlsen said: “Right now it is very hard to have a relationship with any of the FIDE leadership. Speaking for myself and my father.”

Fide has been unequivocal about not wanting to part with its sole authority over the ‘World Championship’ title

The International Chess Federation (FIDE) issued a comprehensive statement on Monday following the news that no agreement had been reached between FIDE and Freestyle Chess over the use of the “World Championship.