NEW YORK — Magnus Carlsen, the world’s leading chess player, is transforming his controversial denim into funds for a good cause.
This week, the Norwegian chess grandmaster revealed his plan to auction the luxury Italian jeans that ignited a debate over tournament dress codes during the World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships in December. Carlsen withdrew from the New York event after accepting a $200 penalty rather than changing his pants, leading to discussions about player attire.
While the organizing body of the tournament has since decided to relax their apparel guidelines, Carlsen has chosen to sell the now-infamous jeans.
Chess enthusiasts and followers of the so-called #JeansGate controversy now have the opportunity to bid on Carlsen’s size 32 regular fit Corneliani jeans. The auction is set to close on March 1, and as of February 21, the highest bid stood at an impressive $8,100. The jeans are being sold as pre-owned but are described as being in “good” condition on eBay.
The raised funds from this auction will benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, a national organization that provides youth mentoring. The charity operates through local chapters that extend their services across all 50 states and in 12 other countries. According to the auction details, the proceeds will support “youth mentorship at chess clinics, community events, and beyond, to build connection, belonging, and enrich the lives of young people through the game.”
Carlsen’s fundraising endeavor not only turns a piece of clothing that sparked a debate into a means of support for young individuals but also highlights the importance of mentorship in the chess community.
