Thanks to The Chess Viking @ZibbitVideos, a never-before-published footage from the 1972 World Chess Championship between Bobby Fischer and Boris Spassky. The footage was made in 1975 and narrated by legendary Icelandic GM Friðrik Ólafsson (FIDE President 1978–1982). In it, Friðrik reflects on the match three years after its conclusion, while we are shown unique clips from the games themselves and from the closing ceremony.
More: Bobby Fischer’s unparalleled achievement / Throwback to 1972 Fischer – Spassky World Championship Match
Originally, this recording was never broadcast due to TV rights issues. Today, on September 1st, 53 years after the match concluded in Reykjavik, we are proud to finally release it publicly. I have also added English subtitles so that chess fans worldwide can enjoy Friðrik’s insights.
Relive the atmosphere of the legendary 1972 World Chess Championship match between Bobby Fischer and Boris Spassky, often called “The Match of the Century.” This video presents historic clips from Reykjavik during that unforgettable summer, with narration by Grandmaster Friðrik Ólafsson, Iceland’s first grandmaster, former FIDE president, and one of the most respected voices in the chess world. This footage was shot in 1975, on the three year anniversary of the conclusion of the 1972 match. However, because of fears of TV rights, this has not been published but with 50 years now passed, the footage is public domain. You’ll see rare footage from inside Laugardalshöll, capturing the tension, drama, and cultural significance of the Fischer–Spassky showdown at the height of the Cold War. Alongside the games themselves, you’ll witness the surrounding events, the personalities involved, and the incredible public interest that made this match a milestone in chess history.