NEW YORK — Magnus Carlsen, the world’s leading chess player, is leveraging a recent wardrobe controversy to support a charitable cause. The renowned Norwegian chess grandmaster made it known this week that he will be auctioning a pair of jeans from the prestigious Italian brand that ignited a debate over tournament dress codes during December’s World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships. Carlsen controversially exited the New York event after receiving a $200 penalty for refusing to change into more formal attire.
Following a discussion among the tournament’s organizing committee that led to a relaxation of the dress code, Carlsen has decided to sell his now-infamous jeans. This auction provides chess enthusiasts and those who followed the #JeansGate scandal with the unique opportunity to own a piece of this unusual episode from chess history. The pair of size 32 regular fit Corneliani jeans is listed as pre-owned but in “good” condition on eBay, and as of February 21, the highest bid had reached $8,100. The auction is set to conclude on March 1.
All the funds raised from this auction will be donated to Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, an organization dedicated to youth mentoring through local chapters across all 50 states and in 12 countries. The auction description states that the money will be utilized to foster “youth mentorship at chess clinics, community events, and beyond,” aiming to create connections and enhance the lives of young individuals through the game of chess.
This initiative highlights Carlsen’s commitment to using his platform for positive impact while also addressing a lighthearted yet significant moment in chess culture.
