Report: Hans Niemann 'Likely' Cheated in More Than 100 Games

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Oct 05, 2022

Image copyright: Grand Chess Tour [via CNN]story last updated Oct 17, 2022

The Facts

Amid a scandal that has enveloped the sport, 19-year-old US chess player Hans Niemann was found to have "likely" cheated in more than 100 online games, according to an investigation from the website Chess.com.
The teenage grandmaster was thrust into the scandal after defeating the world's top player – Norway's Magnus Carlsen – at the Sinquefield Cup last month. After the defeat, Carlsen withdrew from the tournament, prompting speculation that he believed Niemann was cheating during their game.

The Spin

Narrative A

While inconclusive, the findings of the Chess.com investigation contradict what Niemann has publicly said in response to the cheating allegations. It also documents how Niemann's rise has been abnormal compared to other young players, specifically regarding his victory over Carlsen when the teenager was still ranked just 40th worldwide. Can there be smoke without a flame?

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Narrative B

While Niemann may have cheated in online games, it's unrealistic to suggest he could have cheated in over-the-board play. Evidence related to Carlsen's accusations has yet to be uncovered, and we live in a society where everyone is innocent until proven guilty, as should remain.