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India’s Viswanathan Anand takes helm of World Chess body
Former president Dvorkovich voluntarily suspended his duties after EU sanctions to prevent disruption to FIDE's operations
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Bhavana P - Fri, 24, Jul 2026
- 13:41 EDT
- 37
Viswanathan Anand / X/ vishy64theking
Five-time world chess champion Viswanathan Anand has assumed the interim president role of l the International Chess Federation (FIDE) after president Arkady Dvorkovich voluntarily stepped down following sanctions imposed by the European Union.
The move came after the EU included Dvorkovich in its 21st sanctions package. In a statement, Dvorkovich described the sanctions as "unlawful and unfair" and said he would challenge the decision through all available legal avenues.
However, he said he was stepping aside with immediate effect to ensure the sanctions did not disrupt FIDE's operations.
Also read: FIDE shortlists Indian chess stars for inaugural Excellence Awards
Under the FIDE Charter, Anand, who serves as FIDE deputy president, automatically assumes the responsibilities of interim president while Dvorkovich remains subject to sanctions under European Union and Swiss laws.
The FIDE Council formally accepted and ratified Dvorkovich's decision, stating that he would not exercise the powers, duties or prerogatives of the presidency, including control over FIDE or its assets, for as long as the restrictive measures remain in force.
In a statement posted on social media, Anand said he had assumed the responsibilities of interim president in accordance with the FIDE Charter.
“Following the decision by President Arkady Dvorkovich to suspend the exercise of his duties, and in accordance with the FIDE Charter, I have assumed the responsibilities of Interim President. I want to thank Arkady for his leadership and for putting the interests and stability of FIDE first,” Anand said.
He added that his immediate priority would be to ensure continuity in the federation's work alongside the FIDE Council, administration and member federations.
“FIDE's work continues. Arkady has built a strong team and vision and I today take it as our collective responsibility to carry the work forward,”Anand said.
Anand, regarded as one of India's greatest sporting icons, has served as FIDE deputy president since 2022. As interim president, he will oversee the federation's governance, competitions and development programs until Dvorkovich's suspension ends or the sanctions are lifted.
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