FIDE Suspends GM Kirill Shevchenko for 75 Days Following Spanish Team Chess Championship Expulsion

The International Chess Federation (FIDE) has made headlines with the temporary suspension of Grandmaster Kirill Shevchenko following his expulsion from the Spanish Team Chess Championship. The suspension, lasting 75 days until January 1, comes after concerns were raised about Shevchenko’s behavior during the tournament.

The scandal unfolded when two locked phones were discovered in a bathroom during the championship, leading to Shevchenko’s expulsion. Despite denying any wrongdoing, FIDE’s Fair Play Commission has initiated a preliminary investigation, resulting in the suspension of the 22-year-old player.

This suspension means Shevchenko will miss out on participating in the European Chess Club Cup and the World Rapid and Blitz Championships. FIDE emphasized that the suspension does not imply guilt but is a necessary step in the investigation process.

The news has sent shockwaves through the chess community, as Shevchenko is a rising star with notable achievements, including winning the 2021 European Team Championship with Ukraine. The Romanian Chess Federation has expressed support for Shevchenko, highlighting the need for solid evidence to back up any allegations of cheating.

As the investigation unfolds, the chess world eagerly awaits the outcome of this high-profile case, which has brought attention to the importance of fair play and integrity in the sport.