Chess legend Anand steps in as FIDE interim president after EU sanctions sideline Dvorkovich

NEW DELHI: International Chess Federation (FIDE) President Arkady Dvorkovich has stepped aside from his role after being included in the European Union's latest sanctions list linked to Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine. The decision means FIDE Deputy President and former world champion Viswanathan Anand will serve as the interim president until the sanctions are lifted or overturned.In a statement released by FIDE, Dvorkovich described the sanctions as unjust and confirmed that he would challenge them through legal channels. However, he said his decision to temporarily suspend himself was taken to ensure the smooth functioning of the global governing body."Today, the EU decision to include my name in the 21st sanctions list was published. I want to state unequivocally that I consider this decision unlawful and unfair, and this decision will be immediately challenged by all possible means.