Viswanathan Anand, a five-time world champion, has assumed the role of interim president of the International Chess Federation (FIDE). This change comes following the inclusion of the federation’s Russian head, Arkady Dvorkovich, on the latest European Union sanctions list.
Event Context
This section provides an overview of the background and circumstances surrounding the event, offering clarity and insight into its significance. Understanding the context is essential for comprehending the implications and outcomes related to this event, enabling a more informed discussion on the topic.
Team Analysis
According to Article 19.2 of the FIDE Charter, Anand, who has been the deputy president since 2022, is set to take on the role of interim president. The upcoming FIDE elections are scheduled for September.
Dvorkovich, a former deputy prime minister of Russia from 2012 to 2018, was aiming for a third term as FIDE president in the forthcoming elections, with Kazakhstan’s Timur Turlov, a businessman and head of the country’s chess federation, lined up as his deputy. Given the current sanctions, it remains uncertain whether Turlov will replace Dvorkovich as a candidate for president.
Recently, it was announced that Anand will not be running for the deputy president position that he currently occupies.
Match Outlook
In response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the European Union has enacted its 21st round of sanctions, targeting 170 entities and 48 individuals. These sanctions may entail asset freezes, as well as bans on travel and transactions.
“The EU’s decision to list my name on the 21st sanctions roster was announced today. I firmly believe this action is unjust and illegal, and I will contest it through all available avenues. I am confident that justice will ultimately prevail,” stated Dvokovich in a press release. “Pending a formal court ruling or the modification of this decision, these sanctions may disrupt the stable operation of FIDE. Thus, I have chosen to voluntarily suspend my role as FIDE president effective immediately, and I will remain inactive for as long as I am under the sanctions imposed by EU and Swiss laws. According to the FIDE Charter, the responsibilities of the president will be assumed by Viswanathan Anand, the deputy president and 15th world champion.”
