Redlands Daily Facts Redlands, California Thursday, July 06, 1972 - Page 7
Fischer Apologizes, Chess Match May Start on Sunday
Reykjavik, Iceland (UPI) — American chess challenger Bobby Fischer apologized in writing to the Soviet's Boris Spassky today for delaying the start of their scheduled 24-game world championship match and suggested they get on with the twice-postponed tournament without delay.
The action apparently cleared the way for the match to begin Sunday, one week behind schedule.
“I am still waiting for a telephone call from Spassky's camp that all their conditions have been met, but I am quite sure the match will now start Sunday,” said match referee Lothar Schmid.
Earlier reports that Fischer hand-delivered the note to Spassky were incorrect. “Fischer and Spassky have not yet met in person,” said a Fischer aide.
“Please accept my sincerest apology for my disrespectful behavior in not attending the opening ceremony. I have offended you and your country, the Soviet Union, where chess has a prestigious position,” Fischer's note said.
Fischer also asked Spassky to get the Soviet chess federation to drop its demand that he forfeit the first game to Spassky because he was not present for a meeting to draw lots to see who would get the first move.
The move apparently cleared the way for the twice-postponed match to begin Sunday, one week behind schedule.
The match was postponed the first time because Fischer stayed in New York to bargain for more prize money.
“I simply became carried away by my petty dispute over money with the Icelandic chess organizers,” Fischer's note said.
“I know you to be a sportsman and a gentleman, and I am looking forward to some exciting chess games with you,” Fischer said.
His note also said he would be at a disadvantage if he was required to forfeit the first game “and I don't believe the world champion desires such an advantage in order to play me.”
Fischer also apologized to Dr. Max Euwe, president of the International Chess Federation (FIDE), for delaying the proceedings. Euwe ordered the first postponement at Fischer's request.
Euwe said earlier the match could start Sunday, or by Tuesday at the latest. He said representatives of Fischer and Spassky apparently ironed out other differences.
