Since 2012, FIDE has held the World Rapid and Blitz Championships at a joint tournament.

The top 20 players in the women's division were:[5] Following round six of the tournament, defending champion Magnus Carlsen was warned and fined for wearing jeans, which violated the dress code.

Instead of continuing the next day, Carlsen decided to withdraw from the tournament, and also announced he would not participate in the World Blitz Chess Championship.

[6] FIDE released a statement that the "decision was made impartially and applies equally to all players", noting that participant Ian Nepomniachtchi was fined for wearing a sport shoes, and then complied with the rules by changing into approved attire.

[8][9] However, on 29 December, after FIDE altered the dress code to allow jeans, Carlsen reversed his decision and announced that he would take part in the World Blitz Chess Championship after all.