Why FIDE dropped the 400 point rule

The rule limits the rating gap used when evaluating game results. From October 1st FIDE dropped the 400 point rule for players rated above 2650. This makes it harder for top players to gain points by playing against much weaker opponents (called “farming”), and easier to lose points when not beating them. Leading chess statistician and FIDe consultant Jeff Sonas tells us why, and what the rule change implies.