Chess grandmaster Magnus Carlsen broke a dress code with jeans. Now he’s selling them for charity

Magnus Carlsen

Top-ranked chess player Magnus Carlsen is turning his controversial denim into some greens — for charity.

The Norwegian chess grandmaster announced last week that he is auctioning off the Italian luxury brand jeans that started a dress code dispute at December’s World Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships. Carlsen ultimately quit the New York competition after accepting a $200 fine while refusing to change his pants.

While the tournament’s governing body agreed to loosen the dress code, Carlsen is parting with his infamous britches.

Chess fanatics and #JeansGate followers now have the chance to own Carlsen’s pair of size 32 regular fit Corneliani jeans. The auction is scheduled to end March 1. Listed as pre-owned but in “good” condition on eBay, the pants’ highest offer was $8,200 as of the morning of Feb. 21.

Proceeds will go to Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, a national youth-mentoring charity that carries out its mission through local chapters across 5,000 communities nationwide. According to BBBSA President and CEO Artis Stevens, they will be used to “bring mentorship to even more youth through chess clinics, community events, and more, equipping them with the skills and confidence to navigate life’s challenges.”

Stevens said chess has long been a favorite activity for program participants that creates opportunities for critical thinking and lifelong connections.

“Magnus Carlsen has captivated the world with his brilliance in chess, and now, this iconic piece of chess history will help inspire and empower the next generation through mentorship,” Stevens said. JAMES POLLARD, NEW YORK, MDT/AP