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Viswanathan Anand Steps in as Interim President of FIDE Amid Sanctions

In a significant development for the chess community, Viswanathan Anand has taken over as the interim president of FIDE after Arkady Dvorkovich stepped down due to EU sanctions linked to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Dvorkovich plans to contest the sanctions, which could freeze his assets and impose travel bans. Anand, who has been the Deputy President since 2022, will lead FIDE until Dvorkovich's situation is resolved. This transition raises questions about the future of FIDE amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 24, 2026, 12:58 IST

Anand Takes Charge as FIDE Interim President

Viswanathan Anand, a five-time world chess champion, has assumed the role of interim president of the international chess federation, FIDE. This transition follows the resignation of Arkady Dvorkovich, the current president, who stepped down after being placed on the European Union's sanctions list due to the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

Dvorkovich, a Russian national, has expressed his intention to contest the EU's decision through all available legal avenues. The sanctions could result in the freezing of his financial assets and impose travel restrictions. Anand has been serving as FIDE's Deputy President since 2022.


The FIDE Council has officially acknowledged and approved Dvorkovich's decision to suspend his presidential responsibilities. In a statement, FIDE confirmed, "In accordance with article 19.2 of the FIDE Charter, Mr. Viswanathan Anand, Deputy President of FIDE, will act as Interim President while Mr. Dvorkovich is under the sanctions imposed by Swiss and EU regulations."

Dvorkovich has publicly criticized the EU's actions, labeling them as unjust. He stated, "The EU's decision to add my name to the 21st sanctions list is both unlawful and unfair. I will challenge this decision through every possible means, as I believe justice will ultimately prevail."


He further noted that until a court ruling is made or the sanctions are lifted, these restrictions could disrupt FIDE's operations. Therefore, he has chosen to voluntarily suspend his presidential duties effective immediately, allowing Anand to take over as per the FIDE Charter.