Pakistan forfeits opening FIDE World Chess Olympiad match to Israel, 4-0

Pakistan forfeited its opening match against Israel in the Open section at the FIDE World Chess Olympiad on 2026-09-16, handing Israel a 4-0 default victory.

Pakistan refused to play, citing solidarity with the Palestinian people and adherence to its policy of non-recognition of Israel.

Pakistan remains eligible to take part in the upcoming rounds of the Olympiad.