The International Chess Federation (FIDE) recently decided to uphold the ban on the chess teams of Russia and Belarus from international competitions due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Despite being banned, players from these countries can still participate under the neutral FIDE flag. A proposal was made during a FIDE general assembly to consult the International Olympic Committee (IOC) regarding the participation of Russian and Belarusian disabled and junior teams, with mixed responses from delegates.
Critics of the ban highlight the close ties between Russia’s chess federation and its government and military, with influential figures like ex-Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov on the board. The final decision lies with the FIDE Council, and it is unlikely to overturn the ban. The vote was seen as a “crushing defeat” for Russia by the head of the English Chess Federation. On the other hand, the Ukrainian Chess Federation hailed it as a “victory for Ukraine” in the ongoing conflict. The repercussions of this decision extend beyond the sport, reflecting the geopolitical tensions between the involved countries.
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