Tata Steel Chess Tournament Delayed by Environmental Protest Blocking Venue with Coal

The Tata Steel Chess Tournament in Wijk aan Zee was temporarily delayed when environmental activists from Extinction Rebellion Nederland blocked the venue entrance by dumping over 2,000 kilograms of coal. The protest aimed to highlight Tata Steel's environmental record and oppose perceived sportswashing. Organisers acknowledged the planned demonstration, respected the right to protest, and assured that the event, featuring 14 players including top seed Arjun Erigaisi, would continue safely without losing scheduled rounds.