I just received the following from Wesley So in Las Vegas:

“I withdrew from the National Open to focus on finalizing the federation transfer process. This situation is taking a big toll on me. I hope to finish everything shortly. Then it is up to the NCFP to sign off on it or not.”

In the past week, the story about Wesley making the decision to officially transfer to the US became major news in the Philippines. He was bombarded with questions and interview requests. He is overwhelmed with once a “friendly and personal request” to now a media frenzy.

There is not much more he can say or do other than to wait for the decision by the NCFP. Since Wesley’s numerous “unofficial” requests (since November 2013) fell on deaf ears, he is now working directly with the US federation to file the official paperwork for FIDE / NCFP. Then the ball will solely be on the NCFP’s court.

He is making the right decision to take a short time out. He needs to clear his head, then refocus on his chess. This is too much of a distraction.

https://chessdailynews.com/exclusive-interview-with-gm-wesley-so-by-chessdom-about-switching-federation/

https://chessdailynews.com/wesley-so-will-switch-federation-to-the-us/

Chess Daily News from Susan Polgar
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