Viswanathan Anand becomes interim FIDE president after Dvorkovich suspension

Viswanathan Anand has become interim president of FIDE after Arkady Dvorkovich voluntarily suspended his powers and duties with immediate effect.

FIDE said the suspension followed the inclusion of Dvorkovich in the European Union’s 21st sanctions list. He called the decision unlawful and unfair and said it would be challenged.

The FIDE Council ratified the suspension and said Dvorkovich will not exercise the responsibilities, rights or prerogatives of the presidency while the restrictive measures remain in force.

Anand, FIDE’s deputy president and the 15th world champion, assumes the role under article 19.2 of the FIDE Charter.

Image: FIDE.