Anand named interim FIDE president amid sanctions

Viswanathan Anand has become interim president of FIDE after Arkady Dvorkovich stepped aside in response to EU sanctions tied to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Dvorkovich said he suspended his duties to ensure the federation's stability while challenging the sanctions, which are part of the EU’s 21st package affecting 48 individuals and 170 entities. Anand, FIDE deputy president and a five-time world champion, will lead the organization as interim president until the sanctions are lifted and a new vote is held. FIDE confirmed the interim arrangement under Article 19.2 of the charter, with elections scheduled for September during the Chess Olympiad in Uzbekistan. Dvorkovich condemned the sanctions as unlawful and unfair, while Anand’s leadership is expected to oversee ongoing events and governance, including the upcoming presidential election.