The 2012 SPICE Cup reception was held at my home tonight. After dinner, we had the official drawing of lots. 6 balls (1-6) were hidden in 6 pockets of the pool table. By random order, the players picked a pocket of their choice. Here is the order:
Order by lot drawing
1. GM Georg Meier (Germany)
2. GM Ding Liren (China)
3. GM Csaba Balogh (Hungary)
4. GM Maxime Vachier-Lagrave (France)
5. GM Wesley So (Philippines)
6. GM Le Quang Liem (Vietnam)
Round 1 matchup
Georg Meier vs Le Quang Liem
Ding Liren vs Wesley So
Csaba Balogh vs Maxime Vachier-Lagrave
The time control is 40 moves in 90 minutes + 30 seconds increment, then g/30 + 30 seconds increment.
Fighting chess is expected. No draw offer is allowed (unless it is approved).
Chess Daily News from Susan Polgar
Go Maxime!