The International Chess Federation (FIDE) and world number one Magnus Carlsen have a long history of disagreements, but on Wednesday both backed a new world championship concept that sets the stage for the Norwegian's return.

Notorious for preferring rapid formats over traditional long games, Carlsen since 2023 has not defended the World Championship title he had held since 2013, citing a lack of motivation. The title is now held by India's Gukesh Dommaraju.

The new "Total Chess World Championship Tour", unveiled Wednesday by the Norway Chess foundation, will consist of four events a year and will crown one combined champion for three disciplines: Fast Classic, Rapid and Blitz.

"This seems like a well-thought-out step to further develop chess," Carlsen, 34, said in a statement from Norw

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