My focus will be on ensuring continuity, serving global chess family: Viswanathan Anand
New Delhi, July 24
Five-time world champion Viswanathan Anand has confirmed that he has assumed the responsibilities of interim president of the International Chess Federation on Friday, following the European Union's sanctions against current president Arkady Dvorkovich and said "FIDE work will continue," as his focus will be on serving the global chess family.
After Dvorkovich was named in the EU's 21st sanctions package, he voluntarily suspended the exercise of his powers and duties as FIDE President with immediate effect and for as long as he remains subject to sanctions under the EU and Swiss laws and regulations.
In accordance with article 19.2 of the FIDE Charter, Viswanathan Anand, deputy President of FIDE, named interim president as long as Dvorkovich is subject to the restrictive measures provided by the Swiss and EU laws and regulations in force.
"Following the decision by President Arkady Dvorkovich to suspend the exercise of his duties, and in accordance with the FIDE Charter, I have assumed the responsibilities of Interim President. I want to thank Arkady for his leadership and for putting the interests and stability of FIDE first,"
"Together with the FIDE Council, the administration and our member federations, my focus will be on ensuring continuity and serving the global chess family. FIDE's work continues. Arkady has built a strong team and vision and I today take it as our collective responsibility to carry the work forward. Gens Una Sumus," he added.
AICF president Nitin Narang also congratulated Anand after the Indian chess legend assumed the role of FIDE interim president.
"Vishy sir has earned the respect of the global chess community through his integrity, wisdom and lifelong service to our sport. I am confident that under his stewardship, FIDE will continue to uphold stability, good governance and its commitment to players and federations across the world as was being done by @advorkovich. I also acknowledge Arkady Dvorkovich's decision to place the interests and continuity of FIDE first at a difficult moment.
"The All India Chess Federation looks forward to working closely with Vishy sir and the entire FIDE leadership in advancing the game globally," he posted on X.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Anand has always been a gentleman of the game. This is a big responsibility, but if anyone can handle geopolitical pressures and focus on chess, it's him. Gens Una Sumus indeed! 🙏
Good decision by Dvorkovich to step aside voluntarily. Anand's leadership will ensure FIDE's continuity without getting entangled in EU politics. Let's hope this transition is smooth and transparent.
Finally some good news from the chess world! Anand bringing Indian values of balance and wisdom to FIDE. This could be a turning point for how the organization handles global issues.
But will this temporary arrangement affect upcoming tournaments? We need clarity on how long Anand will be acting president. A timeline would help calm nerves in the chess community.
Great to see AICF supporting this move. Nitin Narang's statement shows unity. Vishy sir has always been above politics, which is exactly what FIDE needs right now.
Just like he handled pressure on the board, Anand will handle this off the board. His legacy keeps growing! Proud to see an Indian leading world chess. 🏆
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