Karpov, who previously visited Cuba in 2004, this time will paid tribute to Cuban Maestro Jose Raul Capablanca, world champ from 1921 to 1927 whom he considers his idol.

Karpov will tour different places of cultural and historic interest and will exchange with local sports executives.

The former world champ will also visit the International School of Sports and Physical Education and a local rehabilitation center for children affected by the Chernobil nuclear disaster.

He will also give a key lecture at the Magna Room of the University of Havana and will attend a simultaneous chess match at the Havana-based IT University.

Karpov, who will turn 57 next May 23, is considered one of the major figures of chess in the world; he, along his countryman Garry Kasparov, wrote a chapter in the world of chess.

Four years ago, the Russian former World Champ attended a chess match that closed the Cuban Sports Olympiads in the central city of Santa Clara.


(mathaba.net)