Anand v Topalov Match In Doubt

The resolutely opaque FIDE bidding process to host the planned Anand versus Topalov world championship match some time in 2010 has so far failed to attract a bid backed by real, honest, check our Swiss bank account if you don't believe us, MONEY.

In the current financial climate, and given the complete lack of a credible and stable WCC cycle, perhaps this isn't such a big surprise.  On the other hand, if chess can't attract sponsors for a much anticipated match between the world champion and the current #1 ranked player, what hope is there for the game?

The brief FIDE press release:

World Championship Match GM V.Anand - GM V. Topalov

When the deadline expired for bids for the World Championship Match between GM V Anand (current World Champion) and GM V Topalov, three bids had been received at the FIDE Secretariat in Athens, Greece from Bulgaria, Singapore and Turkey.

These bids were opened in the presence of the FIDE Deputy President, Georgios Makropoulos and the FIDE Executive Director, David Jarrett.

Under the terms of the bidding procedure, the bids should have been accompanied by financial guarantees. As none of the bids provided such a guarantee, it has been decided that the bidders have until October 15th, the day before the opening of the FIDE Executive Board at Halkidiki, Greece, to meet this condition.

Don't hold your breath.  It's a pity that no bid has been received from India, but Topalov would be unlikely to accept playing on the champion's home turf in any case, just as Anand would certainly be unhappy to play in Bulgaria.

If you happen to have at least 1million euros spare change and fancy hosting the match, please get in touch with FIDE.  The bidding procedure is here.  You know it makes sense.