'We're nowhere near favourites': MVL names India among Olympiad contenders
France opened their Chess Olympiad campaign with a 4-0 win over Tunisia, but top board Maxime Vachier-Lagrave remains realistic about his team’s chances. In an exclusive interaction, MVL named USA, India, China and Uzbekistan as the favourites. The French star also reflected on his three-decade chess journey, handling setbacks, his love for the game and his recent time in India.
The 46th Chess Olympiad commenced in style for the French men's team as they achieved a clean sweep of 4-0 against Tunisia. MVL, the team's key player, did not participate due to rest after a demanding week of matches in India's Global Chess League (GCL). France's roster comprises MVL, Étienne Bacrot, Maxime Lagarde, Jules Moussard, and younger player Marc Andria Maurizzi, with Sébastien Mazé as their captain.
When asked about France's chances of winning the Chess Olympiad in Samarkand, MVL firmly stated, "We're nowhere near favourites." He mentioned that USA, India, China, and Uzbekistan are the main favorites. MVL's grounded perspective stems from his love for chess since childhood and his successful career spanning three decades. Despite occasional setbacks, he emphasizes the importance of learning from them and focusing on the enjoyable moments in the game.
MVL is currently in India for the tournament and admitted to feeling tired every morning, but he also found joy in playing board games and engaging in physical activities like padel during his free time.
Written by urgent.news from Times of India's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
Also reported by 1 other outlet
- At Chess Olympiad, a gambit for Gukesh — and for India indianexpress.com
