Ilyumzhinov on Dvorkovich and the FIDE presidential election
Ilyumzhinov Comments on Dvorkovich’s Decision Not to Run in the FIDE Presidential Election: “The Main Goal Is to Unite the Chess World”
The political intrigue surrounding the FIDE election takes a new turn
The decision of the current President of the International Chess Federation (FIDE) Arkady Dvorkovich not to participate in the upcoming presidential election has become one of the most discussed events in the chess world. His withdrawal has opened a new chapter in the battle for leadership of the global chess federation and has drawn attention to candidates ready to present their own vision for the future of FIDE.
One of those who has already commented on the situation is former FIDE President Kirsan Ilyumzhinov. According to him, the main task of the new leadership should be restoring unity within the chess community.
Ilyumzhinov: the chess world needs unity
Commenting on Dvorkovich’s decision not to run for another term, Ilyumzhinov noted that FIDE is facing an important historical moment. In his opinion, the organization should focus not only on developing tournaments and expanding the global reach of chess but also on overcoming divisions within the federation.
“My goal, if I win the election, is to unite the chess world,” Ilyumzhinov said.
According to the former FIDE president, the organization should become a platform where the interests of different chess federations, players, and organizers can find a balance.
Dvorkovich’s withdrawal changes the balance of power
Arkady Dvorkovich has led FIDE since 2018. During his presidency, the organization developed digital projects, expanded cooperation with major partners, and hosted large-scale international competitions.
However, his time in office was also accompanied by serious discussions regarding federation policies, relations between different chess organizations, and decisions made by the leadership.
After Dvorkovich announced that he would not participate in the election, the race for the FIDE presidency became much more open. Candidates will now have to present their programs and convince delegates that their vision represents the best path forward.
Past experience and new challenges
Kirsan Ilyumzhinov already has extensive experience leading FIDE. He served as president of the organization from 1995 to 2018 and was one of the most influential figures in the history of the international chess federation.
His return to the FIDE political arena is viewed as an attempt to offer an alternative direction — with an emphasis on dialogue, greater involvement of national federations, and restoring trust between different parts of the chess community.
At the same time, modern FIDE faces new challenges: the growth of online chess, competition with commercial platforms, the need to attract younger audiences, and the search for a balance between chess traditions and modern formats.
FIDE election: a battle for the future of world chess
The upcoming FIDE presidential election will not simply be a change of leadership. For many members of the chess community, it represents an opportunity to determine the future direction of the sport.
If Ilyumzhinov manages to gain enough support from delegates, he will face a difficult task — bringing together different groups within the chess world and proving that FIDE can continue moving forward in an era of new challenges.
The main question of the election remains unanswered: who will be able to offer the chess world the most convincing model for the future — continuing the existing course or introducing significant changes?