Looking back at 2016
I’m now back in 1st on all FIDE rating lists (Classical, Rapid and Blitz) although the Classical lead is uncomfortably small. On the bright side I feel motivated to improve, and the challenge is to translate chess understanding and knowledge into quality of play in the events ahead.
I’d again like to thank my main sponsors, Simonsen Vogt Wiig, Arctic Securities, Nordic Semiconductor, newspaper VG, and water provider Isklar for your continued support, and I look forward to our cooperation in 2017.
I got excellent support from my team of seconds during the New York match, and a special thanks to Peter Heine for his help, patience and friendship throughout 2016.
I’m grateful to have had my family with me in Doha, and most of them have joined me also while I recover and prepare for Tata Steel over the next week.