Rallying Spirits: St. Pauli boosted by a star attraction
Magnus Carlsen's Impact on FC St. Pauli
The Norwegian chess prodigy, Magnus Carlsen, has inked an extension with FC St. Pauli, the Kiez club, and fans can't wait to see him aim for checkmate at the Millerntor. Last season, as a newcomer, St. Pauli managed to snag a 12th-place finish in their inaugural Bundesliga stint, setting the stage for even greater things to come.
"It's been a terrific success for the team," Carlsen shared, reflecting on last season. The reigning world champion (2013-2023), who still dominates the world rankings, spoke of his eagerness to be a part of the club’s development and contribute to it.
Carlsen's Chess War
In the previous season, the globetrotting chess maestro took part in two of the club's 14 games. St. Pauli celebrated an exciting premiere win against Solingen, ultimately falling just short in a close contest against eventual Bundesliga champions, Solingen. Carlsen secured a victory and a draw during his tenure, playing alongside star grandmasters like Englishman David Howell, Danish coach Peter Heine Nielsen, and French talent Marc Andria Maurizzi. Although the team heavily leaned on the prowess of Polish grandmaster Bartosz Socko in numerous matches, the presence of Carlsen significantly bolstered their chances of survival in the league.
FC St. Pauli's Chess Department Chief: "A Special Chapter in German Chess for FC St. Pauli"
"Magnus Carlsen is not just an extraordinary player, but his presence elevates the entire atmosphere," stated Thomas Schüttler, the head of FC St. Pauli's chess department. The club expressed immense satisfaction to have Carlsen continue on board, as they embark on writing a unique chapter in the annals of German chess together.
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Carlsen's collaboration with St. Pauli is made possible by entrepreneur Jan Henric Büttner's support. In addition to backing FC St. Pauli's chess division, Büttner founded a Grand Prix series in the innovative "Freestyle Chess" this year. This variation sees the position of the pieces on the back rank determined by a draw before the match begins, adding a new level of intrigue to the traditional game as it eliminates reliance on established opening strategies.
"Having Magnus Carlsen as part of the FC St. Pauli chess team next season underscores the strength of our joint endeavor and affirm our position as champions of making chess more accessible in Germany," shared Büttner.
Bonus Reading:Could the next transfer sensation be coming to FC St. Pauli from Austria? Stay tuned!
The Bundesliga, featuring FC St. Pauli's football team, kicks off its new season at the end of September. Match dates in Hamburg are yet to be announced. With Carlsen's busy schedule, it remains to be seen when he'll take to the board for FC St. Pauli in the coming season.
In light of his extension with FC St. Pauli, Magnus Carlsen will look to use his skills in football alongside his chess prowess, aiming to bring more success to the Kiez club, especially in European leagues. This week's MOPO highlights St. Pauli's potential new signings, offering insights into the football and chess ventures of the club.
