In brief
Fridrik Olafsson, a self-taught chess grandmaster and key player in Iceland's chess extraordinary evolution, died recently at the age of 90 in Reykjavík. His early influences and remarkable victories made him an unexpected champion, allowing Iceland to gain a reputation in the chess world.
Fridrik Olafsson, a notable chess grandmaster who greatly influenced Iceland's status in the chess community, has died in Reykjavík at the age of 90. His passing was confirmed by the International Chess Federation, and he served as its president between 1978 and 1982.Olafsson was initially considered an unlikely champion, as Iceland was not recognized for its chess expertise during his rise. However, following his lead, Iceland eventually boasted the highest number of chess grandmasters per capita in the world by the 1980s. A self-taught player, Olafsson learned the intricacies of chess by watching his father, prompting an early start in competition.At just 11, he began participating in tournaments, reaching master level by 13, and claiming his first of six national titles by age 17. His career milestones included winning the Scandinavian championship in 1953 and tying for first with Viktor Korchnoi at the esteemed 1955-56 Hastings International Chess Congress, further solidifying his status in chess history.
