Chess legend Viswanathan Anand steps in as interim FIDE president after EU sanctions sideline Arkady Dvorkovich

Arkady Dvorkovich (left) and Viswanathan Anand (PTI Photo) NEW DELHI: International Chess Federation (FIDE) president Arkady Dvorkovich has stepped down from his role after being included in the European Union’s latest sanctions list linked to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The decision means FIDE vice-president and former world champion Viswanathan Anand will serve as interim president until the sanctions are lifted or lifted.In a statement issued by FIDE, Dvorkovic called the sanctions unfair and confirmed that he would challenge them legally. However, he said his decision to temporarily suspend himself was taken to ensure the smooth functioning of the global governing body.“The decision of the EU to include my name on the 21st sanctions list was published today. I want to state unequivocally that I consider this decision to be illegal and unfair, and this decision will be challenged immediately by all possible means. I am confident that justice will prevail,” read the FIDE statement.He added that staying in office while under sanctions could affect FIDE’s day-to-day operations.“However, given that until a formal court decision is issued and/or such decision is reversed or amended, these sanctions could impede 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 am subject to sanctions under EU and Swiss laws and regulations.”According to Article 19.2 of the FIDE Charter, Anand will now take over as interim president.The FIDE Council formally accepted Dvorković’s decision and confirmed that he would not exercise any presidential powers or control over the federation or its assets for the duration of the sanctions.The FIDE presidential election at the Samarkand Chess Olympiad will take place as planned.

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 leadership phase, I extend my best wishes to Vice President Viswanathan Anand as he assumes the duties of Interim President,” he wrote on X.“Vishy sir has earned the respect of the global chess community for his integrity, wisdom and lifelong service to our sport. I am confident that under his leadership FIDE will continue to promote stability, good governance and its commitment to players and federations worldwide.”The 21st EU sanctions package targets 170 entities and 48 individuals with measures including possible asset freezes and travel bans. Despite the change in leadership, FIDE said its activities, tournaments and social programs will continue without interruption.

Indian Chess Olympiad teams announced

Meanwhile, India has also announced its teams 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 along with 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.