India, Nov. 9 -- The ongoing Chess World Cup 2025 in Goa sparked controversy regarding an arbiter during Vincent Keymer's Round 3, Game 1 clash against Indian GM Pranesh M. Keymer's clock was under 17 seconds, and he took his knight to d5, playing with white pieces. Meanwhile, Pranesh had over 4 minutes left on his clock, and he touched Keymer's pawn on d3, but then didn't take it with his bishop.

The German GM didn't react, nor did he protest. Then Pranesh moved his bishop to the opposite direction instead. Then the arbiter stepped in, as he was watching the game, and told Pranesh that, as he had already touched the pawn, he needed to play that move instead. Also, taking the pawn with the bishop was the best move, and the arbiter preven...