Turlov–Anand campaign pledges to move chess forward

by Press release
8/1/2026 – Fintech entrepreneur and chess sponsor Timur Turlov has announced his candidacy for President of the International Chess Federation (FIDE), standing together with five-time World Champion Vishwanathan Anand as his candidate for Deputy President. Press release.

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With millions of new players globally and the rise of online platforms, chess in schools and community programmes, the game is entering one of the most exciting periods in its history. This presents FIDE with an opportunity to transform the global chess momentum into sustainable, long-term development that benefits Member Federations and the global Chess Community.

In his roles as Founder and CEO of Freedom Holding Corp., President of the Kazakhstan Chess Federation, President of the International School Chess Federation and the Chairman of the Chess Association of Turkic-Speaking Countries – Turlov has led institutional modernisation, expanded chess in education, attracted long-term investment and built international partnerships.

Under the motto “Moving Chess Forward. Together”, the Turlov/Anand ticket is focused on five key pillars:

  • Build a strong, global institution that is united, independent, transparent and respected around the world.
     
  • Develop digital infrastructure that helps Member Federations organise and manage their work more effectively, improve communication and have greater access to services and resources.
     
  • Strengthen FIDE’s finances, enabling it to invest more in development programmes, competitions, education and support for Member Federations.
     
  • Empower all Member Federations by ensuring an equal voice and equal access to FIDE’s opportunities and resources, regardless of size, geographical location or capacity.
     
  • Raise the standards for the organisation and conduct of all chess events run by FIDE, provide larger prize funds and more opportunities for players to take part in competitions and have access to educational materials and coaching.

The campaign is built around the principle that strong Member Federations are the foundation of a strong FIDE, with every proposal designed to provide greater support, better services and more opportunities for federations around the world.

“Strong Member Federations are the foundation of a strong FIDE,” Turlov said. “Chess is growing faster than ever before. This growth requires a strong, well organised, sustainable, transparent and forward-looking organisation providing real value to Member Federations and the Chess Community. With my experience in business, governance, education and international cooperation, I believe can help shape the next stage of FIDE's development”.

Five-time World Champion Viswanathan Anand, who is the candidate for the role of Deputy President, brings extensive experience in chess both on and off the chessboard.

“Timur’s experience in leading a publicly listed international company, his commitment to technology and innovation, and his long-standing support for chess make him well positioned to lead FIDE through its next stage of development,” Anand said. “Through his leadership, I believe FIDE can become even more digital, financially resilient and inclusive, while ensuring every region of the world has a stronger voice in shaping the future of our game”.

Over the coming weeks, the campaign will present a comprehensive programme covering digital transformation, chess in education, financial sustainability, competition standards, development initiatives and governance.

The campaign will also engage in dialogue with Member Federations to ensure their priorities and expectations help shape the future direction of FIDE.


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