This week’s episode of the New In Chess Podcast features a narration from “The Essential Sosonko”, a collection of chess portraits based on personal stories authored by chess grandmaster Genna Sosonko. Subject of this week’s episode is Dutch grandmaster Max Euwe (1901-1981).
Machgielis “Max” Euwe was a chess grandmaster, mathematician, author, and administrator who became the fifth World Chess Champion in 1935 when he defeated Alexander Alekhine. After losing the title two years later, he would continue to play with the world’s best for many more years before retiring in 1953. After retiring as a player, he served as FIDE president in 1970. In this capacity, he presided over the famous Fischer-Spassky of 1972. He had to navigate many other chess “situations” of the time, such as the defection of Viktor Korchnoi from the USSR and attempts by Soviet officials to remove him from power.
Genna, a fellow countryman, met Max Euwe around the time of the 1972 World Championship match, and the two remained in touch until Euwe died in 1981. When Viktor Korchnoi enlisted Euwe’s help in applying for political asylum in The Netherlands in 1976, Genna facilitated communications between the two chess greats. Over four decades later, Genna’s story paints a picture of Max Euwe as a friend and a historical chess figure.
Enjoy this week’s episode of the New In Chess Podcast! Remember, you can find us on popular platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Google Podcasts, making it convenient for you to browse the chapters and listen to your favourite parts.
