The International Chess Federation (FIDE) has announced the temporary suspension of the membership of the Russian Chess Federation after determining that the requirements of a ruling by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) had not been fulfilled within the prescribed timeframe.
In a statement released following a meeting of the FIDE Council, the governing body said it had reviewed the status of implementation of the CAS decision concerning the Russian federation and concluded that the necessary conditions outlined in the award remained unmet.
As a result, the Council voted to impose a temporary suspension of the federation’s membership with immediate effect, citing Article 26.10 of the FIDE Charter.
Despite the sanction, FIDE stressed that the decision applies solely to the member federation and does not affect the rights of individual chess players. The organization said measures will remain in place to allow eligible players to continue participating in international competitions under conditions established by FIDE and in line with recommendations from the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
“The Council emphasizes that this decision concerns the Member Federation and does not constitute a restriction on the participation opportunities available to individual players,” the statement said.
FIDE also reiterated its commitment to good governance, compliance with decisions of competent judicial bodies, and the protection of the interests of the global chess community.
In accordance with Article 26.10 of the FIDE Charter, the Council decided to submit the issue of confirming the sanction to a vote at the next FIDE General Assembly.
The suspension takes effect immediately and will remain subject to further consideration by FIDE’s governing bodies.
