FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich Steps Aside Due to EU Sanctions

NEW DELHI: International Chess Federation (FIDE) President Arkady Dvorkovich has stepped aside from his role after being included in the European Union's latest sanctions list linked to Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine. The decision means FIDE Deputy President and former world champion Viswanathan Anand will serve as the interim president until the sanctions are lifted or overturned. In a statement released by FIDE, Dvorkovich described the sanctions as unjust and confirmed that he would challenge them through legal channels. However, he said his decision to temporarily suspend himself was taken to ensure the smooth functioning of the global governing body. "Today, the EU decision to include my name in the 21st sanctions list was published. I want to state unequivocally that I consider this decision unlawful and unfair, and this decision will be immediately challenged by all possible means. I am confident that justice will prevail," FIDE's statement reads. He added that remaining in office while under sanctions could affect FIDE's day-to-day operations. "However, given that until a formal court decision is rendered and/or such decision is cancelled or amended, 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 and for as long as I remain subject to sanctions under the EU and Swiss laws and regulations."

Under Article 19.2 of the FIDE Charter, Anand will now take over as Interim President. The FIDE Council formally accepted Dvorkovich's decision and confirmed that he would not exercise any presidential powers or control over the federation or its assets while the sanctions remain in force. The FIDE presidential election at the Chess Olympiad in Samarkand will go ahead as scheduled.

AICF welcomes Anand's new role

The move was welcomed by All India Chess Federation (AICF) President Nitin Narang, who expressed confidence in Anand'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," he wrote on X. "Vishy sir 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 with measures including possible asset freezes and travel bans. Despite the leadership change, FIDE said its activities, tournaments and social programmes will continue without interruption.

India's Chess Olympiad squads announced

Meanwhile, India has also announced its squads for the FIDE Chess Olympiad in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, to be held from September 17 to 27. Defending champions India will be led by reigning world champion D Gukesh, alongside R Praggnanandhaa, Arjun Erigaisi, Nihal Sarin and Vidit Gujrathi in the open section, while Koneru Humpy headlines the women's team with R Vaishali, Divya Deshmukh, Vantika Agrawal and Savitha Shri B.