11/05/2010 13:55
Vladimir Hakobian plays in draw at FIDE Grand Prix
The grand opening of the sixth stage of the FIDE Grand Prix among men took place on May 9 in Russia’s Astrakhan, followed by games of the opening round next day.
Armenia’s the only chess player Vladimir Hakobian (Akopian) played against Israel’s Boris Gelfand in round one. Playing with white Vladimir Hakobian was about to overcome Gelfand; however, the Israeli chess player rebalanced the situation and ended the game in draw.
The tournament is crucial to determine who will be the second qualifier for the Candidates Matches 2010-2011, so the focus in on games between Teimour Radjabov from Azerbaijan, Peter Leko from Hungary, Vassily Ivanchuk from Ukraine, and Dmitry Jakovenko from Russia.
Armenia’s Grand Master Levon Aronian has already qualified, having 500 points.