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What happens after Dvorkovich steps down as FIDE President?

What Happens After Dvorkovich Leaves the FIDE Presidency: The Battle for the Future of World Chess Governance

An Unexpected Twist Ahead of the FIDE Elections

The chess world has entered a new political chapter. Arkady Dvorkovich, who has led the International Chess Federation (FIDE) since 2018, has temporarily stepped aside from his presidential duties. The decision came after his name was added to the European Union sanctions list. Dvorkovich himself stated that he considers the decision unfair and intends to appeal it. While legal procedures continue, the responsibilities of FIDE president have been transferred to the organization’s vice-president and 15th world champion Viswanathan Anand.

However, Dvorkovich’s departure occurred at the most sensitive possible moment — just before the 2026 FIDE presidential elections. The race for control of the international federation has now become much more open, and the chess world faces several possible scenarios for the future.

Dvorkovich Was Planning a Third Term

Before the sanctions-related crisis emerged, Arkady Dvorkovich was considered one of the main favorites for the upcoming elections. He had already been elected FIDE president twice — in 2018 in Batumi and in 2022 in Chennai. The Russian Chess Federation supported his candidacy for another term.

During Dvorkovich’s leadership, FIDE focused on several key areas:

  • development of online chess;
  • expansion of commercial partnerships;
  • digital transformation of the federation;
  • support for chess programs in Asia and Africa;
  • increasing FIDE’s presence beyond traditional chess centers.

Supporters of Dvorkovich argue that under his leadership the organization became more modern and financially stable. Critics, however, pointed to the need for greater transparency and leadership renewal.

The main question now is: will Dvorkovich be able to return to the presidential race?

Temporary Step Aside or the End of an Era?

Formally, this is not a resignation but a voluntary suspension of powers. Dvorkovich emphasized that he wants to continue defending his reputation and hopes to return to his duties after the legal issues are resolved.

However, political reality may prove more complicated.

Even a temporary absence of the FIDE president changes the balance of power. In international organizations, personal connections, negotiations with federations, and a candidate’s ability to conduct an active campaign play a major role.

The FIDE elections are scheduled to take place during the General Assembly in Samarkand in September 2026.

If Dvorkovich is unable to fully participate in the campaign, his opponents will receive a unique opportunity.

The Russian Chess Federation Has Its Own Candidate

The Russian Chess Federation (CFR) finds itself in a difficult situation. On one hand, it was the organization that supported Dvorkovich’s candidacy. On the other hand, the emergence of a political factor requires consideration of new circumstances.

Chess circles are already discussing the question: will the CFR continue to support Dvorkovich, or will it present another candidate?

For the Russian side, this decision is especially important. FIDE remains one of the few international sports organizations where Russian influence has traditionally been significant.

However, the presidential race is not only about national representation. To win, a candidate must gain support from federations across different continents.

According to election rules, a presidential candidate must receive support from at least five federations, including representatives from all four FIDE continents.

A Candidate From the Former FIDE Leadership: A New Battle for Influence

Besides representatives of individual national federations, candidates connected with the previous FIDE management system may also enter the race.

The main intrigue is whether someone will be able to offer the chess community an alternative:

  • maintaining the course of recent years;
  • changing the management structure;
  • strengthening the role of players and federations;
  • making FIDE more independent from political factors.

For many members of the organization, the issue is now not only about the personality of the president but also about the future model of global chess governance.

Anand Has Received a Unique Opportunity

The interim head of FIDE became Viswanathan Anand — one of the most famous chess players in history. His appointment is symbolic: for the first time in a long period, the organization is being led by someone with enormous authority within the chess community itself.

Anand has a reputation as a diplomat and a person capable of bringing different sides together.

He faces several important tasks:

  • maintaining the stability of FIDE operations;
  • ensuring major tournaments take place without disruption;
  • guaranteeing a fair electoral process;
  • preserving the trust of national federations.

Although Anand is currently serving only as interim president, his role in the coming months may become much more significant than initially expected.

Three Possible Scenarios

1. Dvorkovich Returns

If the legal issues are resolved, Dvorkovich will be able to continue his campaign for a third term.

In this case, the election would become a classic confrontation between the current leadership and its opponents.

2. A New Candidate From the Russian Side

If Dvorkovich cannot participate, the Russian Chess Federation may choose to support another representative.

This would allow Russia to maintain its influence within FIDE, but it would require a new strategy and an active international campaign.

3. Victory of a Reform Candidate

The situation could be used by representatives of federations that believe leadership renewal is necessary.

This scenario could lead to major changes:

  • new funding principles;
  • a greater role for national federations;
  • a revision of the management structure.

The Main Intrigue of 2026

Dvorkovich’s departure is not just a personnel change. It coincides with a moment when FIDE must decide the direction of its development for the coming years.

After almost eight years of stable leadership, the organization faces the question of succession.

Will the current course continue? Will the chess world receive a new leader? Or will Dvorkovich return and continue the project he started?

The answer will become known in autumn 2026 in Samarkand. But one thing is already clear: the FIDE presidential elections will be among the most important in the history of modern chess governance.

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