Viswanathan Anand Steps in as Interim President of FIDE Amid Sanctions

Viswanathan Anand has stepped in as the interim president of the International Chess Federation (FIDE) following the sanctions imposed on Arkady Dvorkovich by the European Union. Dvorkovich, who previously served as Russia's Deputy Prime Minister, faces asset freezes and travel bans due to his inclusion in the sanctions list related to the Ukraine conflict. Anand, a five-time world champion, will assume the presidential duties until the next elections scheduled for September. Dvorkovich has expressed his intention to challenge the sanctions legally, asserting their unfairness. This transition marks a significant moment in the governance of international chess.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 24, 2026, 11:00 IST

Anand Takes Charge as FIDE Interim President

On Friday, Viswanathan Anand, a five-time world chess champion, assumed the role of interim president of the International Chess Federation (FIDE). This change comes after the current president, Arkady Dvorkovich, was included in the European Union's latest sanctions list due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which began in 2022. The sanctions affect 48 individuals, including Dvorkovich, who previously held the position of Russia's Deputy Prime Minister from 2012 to 2018, along with 170 organizations. Those listed may face various penalties, such as asset freezes and travel restrictions.

Anand and Dvorkovich previously collaborated in 2022 to win the FIDE President Elections against competitors Andrii Baryshpolets and Peter Heine Nielsen during the FIDE Congress in Chennai. Dvorkovich was re-elected as president, while Anand took on the role of deputy. However, following Dvorkovich's sanctions, Anand has stepped up to fulfill the presidential duties. The next FIDE presidential elections are scheduled for September.

In response to the sanctions, Dvorkovich expressed his discontent, stating, “Today, the EU decision to include my name in the 21st sanctions list was published. I want to state unequivocally that I consider this decision unlawful and unfair, and this decision will be immediately challenged by all possible means. I am confident that justice will prevail.” He further noted that until a formal court ruling is made or the sanctions are lifted, he has decided to voluntarily suspend his responsibilities as FIDE president. According to the FIDE Charter, Anand will now carry out the president's duties during this period.