The Soviet grand chess master Anatoly Karpov has flown home to the Soviet Union to a heroes welcome, after retaining the world chess crown in the hard fought and protracted tournament against challenger Viktor Korchnoi in the Philippines mountain resort of Baguio City. But despite the jubilation, his victory is now being contested. Korchnoi has claimed the final game was invalid and the Swiss Chess Federation is to demand a replay.

SYNOPSIS: The tournament began in july and victory finally came for the young champion after his challenger, Soviet dissident Korchnoi, resigned during the 32nd game.

As Karpov's aircraft landed at Moscow airport, a heroes welcome awaited him. He was greeted by hundred of fans, journalists, officials of the Soviet Chess Association and his parents, sister and nephew.

With the gruelling months of the tournament now behind, him, Karpov is home to be feted a champion, despite the lingering controversy. He was to attend a Kremlin celebration at the weekend marking his victory and the 60th anniversary of the Young Communist League of which he is a member. Victory was uncertain until the very end. Both men and five games until Korchnoi's resignation during the 32nd game.

The championship had been controversial from the start. After resigning, Korchnoi has written to the referee claiming the final game was not valid and the Swiss Chess Federation has taken up his case.