International Chess Federation discusses reinstating rights for Russian and Belarusian federations

President of the Ukrainian Chess Federation Oleksandr Kamyshin is planning to speak out against the return of Russian and Belarusian athletes to international competitions under the aegis of the International Chess Federation (FIDE).

Source: Champion, a sports news platform within Ukrainska Pravda’s holding company; Kamyshin on Telegram

Quote: "On 22 September, the FIDE General Assembly will meet in Budapest, with the agenda including a discussion on 'fully restoring the rights of the national chess federations of Russia and Belarus'. 

This involves allowing teams from these aggressor countries to compete in international events under their own flags and anthems. Russia and Belarus also seek to regain the right to host international tournaments on their own soil under FIDE’s auspices."

Details: Kamyshin reiterated that currently, the national teams of Russia and Belarus are not permitted to compete in international tournaments under FIDE's auspices. Chess players from these countries can only participate under FIDE's neutral flag.

Quote: "While Ukrainian chess players are being killed by Russian military terrorists, there is no place for the Russian and Belarusian flags at chess tournaments. The Russian anthem has no right to be heard in the free world. And no self-respecting chess player who values their reputation will go to a country that daily kills the civilian population of another country."

Oleksandr Kamyshin reminded that since 24 February 2022, 21 chess players have been killed in Ukraine, and two more are missing. 

Official appeals from the Ukrainian Chess Federation to FIDE and to the national federations of FIDE member countries will be sent by the end of the week. Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry will also be involved.

Quote: "I will attend the FIDE General Assembly in person. I will hold face-to-face talks with all delegates who are willing to hear the voice of justice."

Background:

• Oleksandr Kamyshin assumed the role of President of the Ukrainian Chess Federation on 31 August. At the time of his appointment, he was still serving as the Minister for Strategic Industries, but he resigned from that position a few days after that.

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