FIDE World Chess Championship 1990

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FIDE World Chess Championship 1990 was the fifth and final world championship match between Garry Kasparov (the reigning champion, representing the Soviet Union) and Anatoly Karpov (the challenger, also from the Soviet Union). The match, held across New York City, USA (first 12 games) and Lyon, France (final 12 games), saw Kasparov successfully defend his title in a tightly contested battle.

FIDE World Chess Championship 1990, Garry Kasparov, Anatoly Karpov

📷 Garry Kasparov vs Anatoly Karpov during the Optiebeurs Chess Tournament, Amsterdam, May 19, 1988
Rob Croes / Anefo: Rob Croes / Anefo (License: CC0 1.0) via Wikimedia Commons

Winner: Garry Kasparov

Born: April 13, 1963, in Baku, Soviet Union (now Azerbaijan)

Born in Baku, Garry Kasparov rapidly ascended to the pinnacle of the chess world with his aggressive and dynamic playing style. Crowned world champion at just 22 years old in 1985, Kasparov defended his title in 1986 and 1987 before facing his ultimate challenge in 1990. Renowned for his deep calculations, innovative opening preparations, and relentless work ethic, Kasparov revolutionized the game by navigating complex positions under pressure. Beyond the board, his critical stance toward traditional Soviet chess authorities and his advocacy for reform and modernization left an indelible mark on the sport. His triumph in the 1990 championship not only reaffirmed his dominance but also cemented his legacy as one of the most influential figures in chess history.

“I can’t recall a single chess world championship match in which someone wasn’t under intense psychological pressure.” – Garry Kasparov

Opponent: Anatoly Karpov

Born: May 23, 1951, Zlatoust, Russian SFSR, Soviet Union (now Russia)

A master of positional play and precise maneuvering, Anatoly Karpov earned his reputation as one of chess’s most formidable figures. A former world champion, Karpov secured his fifth and final title challenge by winning the 1988–1990 Candidates Tournament, overcoming top opponents with his calm demeanor, tactical acumen, and deep strategic understanding. Known for his methodical and disciplined approach, Karpov’s ability to extract wins from seemingly balanced positions made him a constant threat. The 1990 championship against Kasparov was the climax of a long-standing rivalry, and even though he did not prevail, his performance and legacy continue to inspire players around the globe.

“Chess is a sport. The main object in the game of chess remains the achievement of victory.” – Anatoly Karpov

Match Overview

🗓️ Match Dates: October 8 – December 31, 1990
📍 Location: New York City, USA (first 12 games) and Lyon, France (final 12 games)
✅ Format: Best of 24 games
⏱️ Time Control: 40 moves in 2.5 hours, followed by an additional period with a 30‑second increment per move
💰 Prize Fund: $3 million (with a 5:3 split favoring the champion)
📄 Main Sponsors: Including major names such as Intel

Historical and Cultural Context

The 1990 World Chess Championship unfolded during a period of significant political change and media evolution. It was the last world title match held under the Soviet flag before the dramatic dissolution of the USSR in 1991, capturing extensive global attention as both a major sporting contest and a symbol of shifting international power. With innovative split-location formatting between New York City and Lyon, coupled with comprehensive media coverage and influential commercial sponsorships such as Intel, the event underscored the rapid globalization of chess and marked a new era in sports marketing and international competition.