The One Thing Needful

Peter Doggers popular chess blog ChessVibes brought this Aeroflot fiasco to our attention early this morning that rocks the chess communities around the world. Below is the excerpts of Mamedyarov's protest:

During the game my opponent went out of the playing hall after each move, took his coat and withdrew himself on the toilet. After suspicion of unfair play on move 14 I offered a draw, he refused. We quickly played 11 moves, on the 12th move I played a move which confused my opponent. The next moves from him were given as first choice by Rybka, which quickly allowed him to win the game.

Due to this series of suspicions, having to do with the unusual behaviour of my opponent, Igor Kurnosov, I hereby lodge a protest and refuse to continue participation in the tournament.

I hope that this kind of situation will not occur in the future.

Now, what I want is, Facts...nothing but Facts, Facts.

Fact no. 1 We understand Mamedyarov’s (2724) claim due to the unusual behavior of Kurnusov during the game. An opponent that leaves after each move and plays very accurately in a very complicated and dangerous line is indeed suspicious.

Fact no. 2 However, it is very clear that Mamedyarov has no direct proof at all with his claim that Kursunov (2602) was getting some help from Rybka or any chess computer program. Accusing without very strong proof is totally unacceptable.

Fact no. 3 Kursunov is 2600 player and we've seen several times that at this level, they can even beat players with ratings above 2700 although this is seldom happens unless the 2700 players blunders during the game.

Fact no. 4 In addition we haven't heard anything from Mr Kursunov himself to defend his side so jumping to any conclusions is not wise.

Fact no. 5 Igor Kursunov has a super human performance rating of 2908!

Stick to Facts, sir!