Viswanathan Anand Becomes Interim FIDE President After EU Sanctions

International Chess Federation (FIDE) Deputy President Viswanathan Anand has assumed the role of interim president after the organization's leader voluntarily stepped aside. The transition follows the European Union's adoption of its 21st package of sanctions against Russia, which includes asset freezes and travel bans for Arkady Dvorkovich.

Arkady Dvorkovich, who has served as FIDE President since 2018, suspended his powers and duties with immediate effect to prevent the sanctions from hindering the federation's stability. The FIDE Council ratified this suspension. Dvorkovich described the EU's decision as "unlawful and unfair" and stated he would challenge the move legally, expressing confidence that justice would prevail.

Anand will serve as the interim chief until the sanctions are amended or canceled. Both Dvorkovich and Anand intend to seek their respective roles during the FIDE General Assembly in September, which coincides with the 46th Chess Olympiad in Uzbekistan. Dvorkovich is standing for re-election alongside candidates Henric Büttner and Vadim Rosenstein.