CHENNAI, India (Diya TV) — Five-time world chess champion Viswanathan Anand has stepped into a new leadership role after taking charge as the interim president of the International Chess Federation (FIDE). The change came after FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich suspended his duties following the European Union’s decision to place him on its sanctions list over the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.
The move marks a significant moment for global chess. Anand, one of the sport’s most respected figures, now leads FIDE on an interim basis while Dvorkovich challenges the sanctions through legal channels. As a result, the transition aims to ensure that the organization continues its work without disruption.
Dvorkovich, who is from Russia, announced that he would temporarily step aside because the sanctions could affect FIDE’s operations. According to the European Union’s decision, the restrictions could include freezing his financial accounts and limiting his travel within countries that enforce the sanctions.
FIDE confirmed the leadership change in an official statement. The organization said its council accepted and approved Dvorkovich’s decision to suspend the exercise of his rights, duties and responsibilities as president.
The governing body also cited Article 19.2 of the FIDE Charter. Under that rule, Deputy President Viswanathan Anand will serve as interim president for as long as Dvorkovich remains subject to the restrictive measures under European Union and Swiss laws.
Anand has served as FIDE’s deputy president since 2022. Before entering chess administration, he built one of the greatest playing careers in the history of the game. He won the world championship five times and inspired generations of players in India and around the world. Moreover, his experience and reputation have earned him respect across the global chess community.
In his statement, Dvorkovich strongly criticized the European Union’s decision. He described the sanctions as unlawful and unfair. Furthermore, he said he would challenge the action through every available legal process.
“I am confident that justice will prevail,” Dvorkovich said.
However, he also explained that keeping the interests of FIDE first remained his priority. Therefore, he decided to suspend his duties immediately until the legal situation changes or the sanctions are lifted.
Dvorkovich added that Anand would assume the responsibilities of FIDE president under the federation’s charter. Consequently, the organization can continue its day-to-day work without uncertainty during the legal process.
The leadership transition has already received support from the All India Chess Federation (AICF). Its president, Nitin Narang, praised Anand’s character and leadership qualities. He expressed confidence that Anand would guide the organization with stability and fairness.
In a message posted on X, Narang said Anand has earned the trust of the international chess community through integrity, wisdom and decades of service to the sport. He also said Anand’s leadership would help FIDE maintain strong governance and continue supporting players and national federations across the world.
At the same time, Narang acknowledged Dvorkovich’s decision to put the interests of FIDE ahead of his personal position. He described the move as responsible during a difficult period for the organization.
The All India Chess Federation also said it looks forward to working closely with Anand and the rest of the FIDE leadership to strengthen the game worldwide. That cooperation remains important because FIDE oversees international competitions, world championship events and global chess development programs.
Anand’s appointment comes at a time when chess continues to enjoy growing popularity. International tournaments attract millions of viewers, while young players continue to enter the sport in record numbers. Therefore, stable leadership at FIDE remains important for organizing competitions and supporting chess federations across different countries.
Although Anand now serves as interim president, the arrangement remains temporary. His role will continue only while Dvorkovich remains under the sanctions covered by European Union and Swiss regulations. If the legal challenge changes the situation, FIDE will act according to its charter.
For now, Anand takes charge of the world’s governing chess body during a period of uncertainty. Even so, many within the chess community believe his long experience, calm leadership and deep understanding of the game will help FIDE maintain continuity as it navigates the challenges ahead.
