Shahriyar Mammadyarov repeated the problem of financing his participation in tournaments

Baku / 28.08.18 / Turan: Statement by international grandmaster Shahriyar Mammadyarov about the absence of sponsor and fatigue in view of frequent participation in tournaments, caused a wide resonance in the society. Thousands of people joined the discussion in social networks, including prominent figures and leaders of political parties. Mammadyarov responded to the discussion in the United States, where he participated in the prestigious Sinquefield Cup St. Louis, where he never lost in nine games and with five points ranked the fourth. The Grandmaster thanked the supporters of his position and expressed concern that some had given his problem a political coloring. "Unfortunately, some have given a political assessment to my cry of the soul. I want to say that I am proud to represent my native Azerbaijan, and I always do everything possible to successfully represent my Motherland at the highest level," he wrote on his Facebook page. At the same time, he again clarified the issue of financing his participation in tournaments.

"Over the past five years, I received financial assistance only to participate in the tournament for applicants. This amount was enough only to pay for the costs of this tournament. All the performances of the national team at various tournaments are paid from the state budget. Therefore, to represent the financial resources allocated to Azerbaijani chess players as if they are allocated only for me, is unfair," the chess player wrote. Becaue of the absence of any other sources of income, and the need to keep a team, he had to participate in many tournaments; it is which is difficult and reduces effectiveness. At the same time, Mammadyarov notes that for his successes in tournaments he was repeatedly awarded by the President of Azerbaijan. Some officials also provided personal assistance to him.

"However, in order to remain successful and say a word on the world stage, constant training and financial support are needed. The other chess players competing with me, who have a lower rating, get support from both the state and private entrepreneurs, but I have to pay even for my food and nutrition to members of our team," Mammadyarov continues.

He explained that to train a chess player entering the "top 20" they need a manager, two seconds coaches, a psychologist, a physical training coach and strong rivals. Naturally, keeping such a team requires a lot of money. "We have repeatedly asked private companies to sponsor. However, no one showed interest. But thanks to the support of citizens, I received many proposals. For this I am grateful to you. This inspires me very much," Mammadyarov writes, referring to users of social networks and the public.

The day before, representatives of the National Chess Federation and the Ministry of Youth and Sports assured the public that all necessary funding from Mammadyarov was received from the state. To date, Mammadyarov is the third in the FIDE rating. He is the only Azerbaijani chess player who scored over 2800 points in the rating. He is also the only player in the history of chess who twice became the world champion among the young men. -03D06--