Competition manipulation

Competition manipulation occurs when a person makes an arrangement, takes an action, or deliberately omits an action with the aim of improperly changing the result or normal course of competitive chess. The purpose is to remove some of the competition's genuine uncertainty for the benefit of that person or someone else.

The concept is not limited to a tournament's final standings. It can affect a game, match, pairings, meaning the assignment of opponents, the appointment of officials, or another meaningful part of the competitive process. Intention matters: an attempt can qualify even when the plan fails and no advantage is ultimately obtained.

Common forms

• Match-fixing, when a result or important part of a contest is arranged or directed in advance.
• Rating fraud, when results or records are distorted to create a misleading numerical estimate of playing strength.
• Use of a false identity so that performance is attributed to the wrong person.
• Deliberate participation in a fictitious tournament or game.