Five-time world chess champion Viswanathan Anand has assumed the role of interim president of the International Chess Federation (FIDE) after incumbent president Arkady Dvorkovich temporarily stepped aside following his inclusion in the European Union’s latest sanctions list related to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.

The development marks a significant moment in international chess administration, with Anand, one of the sport’s most respected figures, taking charge of the governing body during a period of uncertainty. Anand has served as FIDE’s Deputy President since 2022, playing an active role in the federation’s leadership and governance.

Dvorkovich, a former Russian deputy prime minister and long-time sports administrator, announced that he would voluntarily suspend the exercise of his powers as FIDE president while he remains subject to the sanctions imposed by the European Union and corresponding regulations in Switzerland.

The European Union recently added Dvorkovich to its 21st sanctions package, a move that could result in restrictions such as the freezing of financial assets and travel limitations. In response, Dvorkovich strongly rejected the decision, describing it as both unlawful and unjustified, and confirmed that he would challenge the sanctions through all available legal channels.

Following his decision, the FIDE Council formally accepted and ratified the temporary suspension of his presidential duties. In an official statement, FIDE said, “The FIDE Council accepts and ratifies the decision of Mr Arkady Dvorkovich to suspend the exercise of his rights, duties and prerogatives as President of the FIDE.”

The governing body further confirmed that Anand would assume the responsibilities of the office in accordance with the federation’s constitution. “In accordance with Article 19.2 of the FIDE Charter, Mr Anand Viswanathan, Deputy President of FIDE, shall act as Interim President as long as Mr Dvorkovich is subject to the restrictive measures provided by the Swiss and EU laws and regulations in force,” the statement added.

As interim president, Anand will oversee the functioning of FIDE, which is responsible for regulating international chess competitions, organising world championship events, promoting the sport globally and coordinating with national chess federations across the world.

Widely regarded as one of the greatest chess players in history, Anand has enjoyed a distinguished career spanning more than three decades. He became India’s first Grandmaster in 1988 and went on to win the World Chess Championship five times, inspiring generations of players and playing a pivotal role in the rise of Indian chess on the global stage.

Since joining the FIDE leadership in 2022 as Deputy President, Anand has been actively involved in strengthening international chess development, supporting grassroots initiatives and helping guide the organisation’s strategic direction. His appointment as interim president is expected to ensure continuity in the federation’s administration while Dvorkovich’s legal challenge proceeds.

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In a statement explaining his decision to step aside, Dvorkovich maintained that he had done nothing to justify the sanctions and expressed confidence that the decision would eventually be overturned.

“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 said.
Dvorkovich added that although he disagreed with the sanctions, he believed it was important to protect the smooth functioning of FIDE during the legal process.

“However, given that until a formal court decision is rendered and/or such decision is cancelled or amended, these sanctions could hinder 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 remain subject to sanctions under the EU and Swiss laws and regulations,” he stated.

He also confirmed that the transition of authority would follow the provisions laid down in the FIDE Charter. “In accordance with the FIDE Charter, the duties of the President will be assumed by the FIDE Deputy President, the 15th World Champion, Viswanathan Anand,” Dvorkovich said.

Anand’s elevation to interim president places one of chess’s most celebrated figures at the helm of the sport’s global governing body at a crucial time. While Dvorkovich pursues legal action against the European Union’s sanctions, Anand is expected to lead FIDE’s day-to-day operations, ensuring that international tournaments, governance matters and development programmes continue without disruption. His vast experience, global stature and administrative role within FIDE are expected to provide stability to the organisation until the matter is resolved.