Five-time world champion Viswanathan Anand has been appointed interim president of the International Chess Federation (FIDE) after president Arkady Dvorkovich temporarily stepped aside following his inclusion in the European Union’s latest sanctions list linked to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.
Dvorkovich, who is from Russia, said he would challenge the EU’s decision through legal channels. The sanctions could result in the freezing of his assets and restrictions on his travel. Anand, who has served as FIDE Deputy President since 2022, will now lead the governing body until the matter is resolved.
Announcing the decision, 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.”
“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.
In a separate statement, Dvorkovich said he believes the sanctions are unjustified and confirmed that he will contest them.
“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.
“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.
“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,” said Dvorkovich.