[techwizrd]

This is not about dress code--it's about inconsistent enforcement and the letter of the rules. Zaven Andriasian was wearing jeans on the same day. Nepo was fined for wearing a jacket [0].

FIDE confirmed that his outfit was appropriate and the arbiters did not exercise discretion. Essentially, it's an argument between the spirit and letter of the rules. Magnus agreed he'd made a mistake, but wanted to change for tomorrow rather than in-between rounds so he did not lose concentration. He was removed from all pairings for not changing immediately.

The other aspect people have been citing is that Magnus wants to play Freestyle Chess and faster time formats. But FIDE has been very unsuccessful in trying to hold a Freestyle Chess tournament. FIDE is very reliant on Magnus to draw in sponsors, and yet he does not seem to be getting what he wants regarding WCC changes (see his 2014 letter), Freestyle Chess, or faster time formats.

0: https://x.com/lachesisq/status/1872736455132676251