'Kramnik might not want to return to the cycle'

Dear ChessBase,

I read with surprise the announcement of Universal Events Promotion, together with the statement of GM Vladimir Kramnik, which were trying to hold FIDE culpable for the collapse of the negotiations for a match Topalov-Kramnik.

I would therefore like to clarify the following:

1. FIDE hasn't received yet any official proposal concerning such a match.

2. When we were informed by Mr Danailov, the manager of World Champion V. Topalov, that negotiations were starting I immediately expressed the view that such a match should be for the World Championship Title and it should be organized under FIDE's auspices and in accordance with regulations which everyone should agree.

3. To this direction I suggested a meeting with all parties concerned.

4. To the question of Mr Danailov about FIDE's financial demands, I referred to the relative FIDE regulations which state that FIDE receives a 20% share of or above the prize fund.

Two days ago I was informed by Mr Danailov that the Kramnik side rejected the idea of holding the match within FIDE's authority and the proposal for a meeting of all sides was rejected as well.

After all these developments, it's strange how FIDE can be accused for the collapse of negotiations between UEP, Topalov and Kramnik.

Before today I believed that Kramnik was willing to play a match for the World Championship under FIDE's auspices. Unfortunately, recent developments show that he might not want to return to the official World Chess Championship cycle and is, at the same time, trying to hold FIDE responsible for his decision.

Best regards
Georgios Makropoulos
FIDE Deputy President

Deputy FIDE President Georgios Makropoulos