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A grandmaster chess tournament in New Delhi emphasises silence and concentration, contrasting sharply with the Freestyle Chess Grand Slam in Las Vegas, where spectators reacted boisterously to moves. Players expressed frustration with the distractions caused by the live audience, questioning whether chess is truly ready for such an environment.

The Indian leg of the Freestyle Chess Grand Slam, scheduled for September in New Delhi, has been cancelled due to a lack of sponsors. This is a disappointment for fans hoping to see Magnus Carlsen compete in India. CEO Jan Henric Buettner confirmed the move and will step down in July. The next event is in Las Vegas this July.