Nothing against sportsman spirit: Pakistan explain decision to boycott Israel
· Sports · Times of India
Pakistan refused to play Israel in the opening round of the 46th FIDE World Chess Olympiad in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, handing Israel a 4-0 win by walkover on Wednesday. The Chess Federation of Pakistan stated that the decision followed the government's policy of not recognizing Israel and was intended to show solidarity with Palestinians. Gauhar Iqbal, Secretary General of the Pakistan Chess Federation, clarified that the walkover was based strictly on state policy rather than animosity toward individual players or sportsmanship. CFP President Syed Zeeshan Naqvi confirmed that Pakistan will continue its participation in other international sporting events while adhering to official government positions. The biennial Chess Olympiad runs from September 15 to 27, featuring more than 390 teams across open and women's competitions.
Why it matters
The boycott impacts tournament standings in the Chess Olympiad and highlights how geopolitical disputes intersect with international sporting events.
Read the original report — Times of India
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