Hans Niemann, the controversial American grandmaster, is currently in London for a five-day match against England's top player, Nikita Vitiugov. The series, part of Niemann's 'Niemann v the World' tour, includes classical, rapid and blitz games, with a $20,000 prize fund.
So far, Niemann leads narrowly after six classical games, with one win and five draws. The American won the first game in 48 moves but missed tactical chances in the second, settling for a draw. Games three to six were also drawn after level play. The result reflects their ratings, and Vitiugov's solid defence has been a success after his poor start.
Spectators at the Gem Fitzrovia Hotel describe a controlled atmosphere. Both players underwent security scans before games, with a chief arbiter accompanying them to the toilet. Niemann was noted for fidgeting, while Vitiugov remained still. The match is free to watch and live on lichess.
Niemann rose to fame after defeating Magnus Carlsen in 2022, sparking cheating allegations and a $100m lawsuit, now largely dismissed. He has climbed to world No 21 and aims for top invitation tournaments. Earlier this month, he defeated Anish Giri in Utrecht. After London, he will face Etienne Bacrot in Paris, potentially reaching the world top 15.
