FIDE Announces Compensation for Teams Affected by Accommodation Issues at Chess Olympiad 2026

The International Chess Federation (FIDE) has announced a compensation plan for teams affected by accommodation issues during the Chess Olympiad 2026 in Samarkand. Following complaints from Indian Grandmasters Srinath Narayanan and Vidit Gujrathi about the lack of proper lodging, FIDE will reimburse teams that had to secure their own accommodations and provide additional payments to those in substandard official hotels. The federation expressed regret over the situation and emphasized its commitment to ensuring fair treatment for all participating federations. The Chess Olympiad, running from September 15 to 27, sees India competing as the defending champion in both open and women's sections.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 16, 2026, 20:43 IST

FIDE's Response to Accommodation Challenges

On Wednesday, the International Chess Federation (FIDE) revealed plans for reimbursement and compensation for teams impacted by lodging issues during the Chess Olympiad 2026 in Samarkand. This announcement followed concerns raised by Indian Grandmasters Srinath Narayanan and Vidit Gujrathi regarding the difficulties encountered by teams upon their arrival.

FIDE stated that teams forced to secure their own accommodations due to inadequate official arrangements would be reimbursed for lodging of suitable quality for a maximum of three days. Additionally, teams residing in official hotels that fail to meet FIDE's standards will receive extra compensation. The federation made this announcement via a post on X.

Official Apology and Commitment from FIDE

FIDE expressed regret over the accommodation issues that left some teams without proper lodging on the first day of the Olympiad, compelling them to find rooms independently. While acknowledging that accommodation falls under the local Organising Committee's jurisdiction, FIDE emphasized its responsibility to support the affected federations.

The federation confirmed that it has allocated additional financial resources to ensure that all teams needing to arrange their own accommodations will be reimbursed for up to three days. Furthermore, teams in substandard official hotels will receive additional payments.

FIDE reiterated its commitment to ensuring that no federation incurs financial losses due to these organizational failures, stating that fair treatment and proper conditions for all participating federations remain its top priority.

Concerns Raised by Indian Grandmasters

The announcement followed complaints from Narayanan and Gujrathi regarding the accommodation situation on the competition's opening day. Narayanan reported that the Indian team had to wait several hours for room assignments after arriving at Samarkand airport. However, he later noted that the issue was resolved after discussions with Uzbek chess representatives and hotel management.

In a post on X, Narayanan shared, "Update - A delegation from Uzbek chess, led by @AlisherSZ, and the hotel team met with me and @chessgmkunte today. They have made significant efforts to address our concerns. @narangnitin and @aicfchess have also provided essential support from the start. The team is now ready to focus on the games!"

Initial Complaints from GMs

Earlier, Narayanan had expressed his frustration on X, stating, "Having a terrible experience at the @FIDE_chess 2026 Olympiad. The team landed 5 hours ago at Samarkand airport and still hasn't been assigned rooms, with no clarity on when this will happen."

Vidit Gujrathi also shared his disappointment, commenting, "Very poor first impressions of the Samarkand, Uzbekistan Olympiad 2026. Still waiting."

The Chess Olympiad, recognized as the premier team chess event globally, is taking place in Samarkand from September 15 to 27. India enters the competition as the defending champion in both the open and women's categories, featuring top players and teams from around the world.