FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich Steps Aside Amid EU Sanctions; Viswanathan Anand Takes Interim Role
FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich Steps Aside Amid EU Sanctions; Viswanathan Anand Takes Interim Role
NEW DELHI: In a significant development for the chess world, Arkady Dvorkovich, President of the International Chess Federation (FIDE), has voluntarily stepped down from his position following his inclusion in the European Union’s latest sanctions list, a consequence of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. This unexpected move paves the way for FIDE Deputy President and former world champion Viswanathan Anand to assume the role of interim president until the sanctions are lifted or overturned.
In an official statement, Dvorkovich expressed his discontent with the sanctions, labeling them “unjust” and confirming his intention to challenge them through legal avenues. However, he emphasized that his decision to suspend himself was made to ensure the uninterrupted functioning of FIDE, the global governing body for chess.
“The EU decision to include my name in the 21st sanctions list was published today. I want to state unequivocally that I consider this decision unlawful and unfair, and I will challenge it by all possible means. I am confident that justice will prevail,” Dvorkovich stated.
He further noted that remaining in office while under sanctions could disrupt FIDE’s daily operations. “Given that these sanctions could hinder the stable functioning of FIDE, I have decided to voluntarily suspend the exercise of my powers and duties as FIDE President with immediate effect,” he added.
According to Article 19.2 of the FIDE Charter, Anand will now serve as Interim President. The FIDE Council has formally accepted Dvorkovich’s decision, confirming that he will not exercise any presidential powers or control over the federation while the sanctions remain in effect.
Despite the leadership change, the upcoming FIDE presidential election at the Chess Olympiad in Samarkand will proceed as planned.
AICF Welcomes Anand’s Leadership
The All India Chess Federation (AICF) has welcomed Anand’s new role, with AICF President Nitin Narang expressing confidence in the legendary chess player’s leadership. “As FIDE enters an interim phase of leadership, I extend my best wishes to Deputy President Viswanathan Anand as he assumes the responsibilities of Interim President,” Narang stated on social media platform X.
“Vishy has earned the respect of the global chess community through his integrity, wisdom, and lifelong service to our sport. I am confident that under his stewardship, FIDE will continue to uphold stability, good governance, and its commitment to players and federations across the world.”
The EU’s 21st sanctions package targets 170 entities and 48 individuals, imposing measures such as asset freezes and travel bans. Despite the leadership transition, FIDE has assured that its activities, tournaments, and social programs will continue without interruption.
India’s Chess Olympiad Squads Announced
In related news, India has announced its squads for the upcoming FIDE Chess Olympiad in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, scheduled from September 17 to 27. The defending champions will be led by reigning world champion D Gukesh, alongside R Praggnanandhaa, Arjun Erigaisi, Nihal Sarin, and Vidit Gujrathi in the open section. Meanwhile, the women’s team will be headlined by Koneru Humpy, with R Vaishali, Divya Deshmukh, Vantika Agrawal, and Savitha Shri rounding out the squad.
As the chess community navigates this transitional period, all eyes will be on Anand as he steps into this pivotal role, ensuring that the game continues to thrive on the global stage.