2006: Kramnik vs. Topalov

So, we come to 2006 and the famous unification match, which was played between “Classical World Chess Champion” Vladimir Kramnik, and “FIDE World Chess Champion” Veselin Topalov.

The match was played from September 23rd until October 13th, 2006. In Elista, Kalmykia, Russia. The idea was to finally unite the 2 titles and have one world champion.
After beating Kasparov sensationally in 2000, Kramnik successfully defended his title in 2004 against Peter Leko, but not without trouble. In that match played in Brisago in Switzerland, Kramnik had to win the last game. And he did, saving his title!

Topalov came in this match as FIDE champion after a match tournament held in San Luis, Argentina, in 2005, after a stellar performance.

The unification match was a bit controversial, and it is not pleasant to mention that, but  I have to. After 2-0 and 2 draws for Kramnik, the result was 3-1. But then, before the start of the 5th game (on a rest day), Topalov and his team accused Kramnik of using some kind of assistance during the match (Kramnik went very often to the restroom). After this, Kramnik was furious and refused to play, and he lost game 5 by forfeit. It was the first time that such a thing happened after the famous Fischer – Spassky match in 1972.
Things got complicated, and after some negotiations and the removal of the complete matchboard, Kramnik finally agreed to continue the match but played under protest.
Finally, after 12 games, the result was even, and then Kramnik clinched the title after 4 rapid playoff games, and he became the 14h Undisputed World Chess Champion.

The match was exciting, with very interesting games, with a lot of fights!
That also stands for the next 2 matches, which happened in the battle for the world title in 2008 and 2010. And I will present those to you in coming videos as well.
Enjoy this one, and be ready for more!