The International Chess Federation (FIDE) announced on Wednesday that it is considering disciplinary action against former world champion Vladimir Kramnik for unproven cheating allegations he levied against American grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky, leading up to Naroditsky's untimely death.
Naroditsky, who was a prominent figure in the chess community at just 29 years old, tragically passed away earlier this week, with the cause of death remaining unspecified. Kramnik initiated his claims against Naroditsky last October, suggesting cheating in online chess games without backing them with credible evidence.
In response to the allegations, Naroditsky had firmly denied any wrongdoing, accusing Kramnik of attempting to tarnish his reputation and life. Arkady Dvorkovich, president of FIDE, stated that all public remarks from Kramnik would be reviewed by the Ethics and Disciplinary Commission as they strive to uphold the integrity of the chess world.
The fallout from Kramnik's statements has sparked a wave of condemnation from fellow grandmasters, including Hikaru Nakamura and Magnus Carlsen, who articulated their disapproval of Kramnik's relentless allegations. They highlight the detrimental impact these claims have not only on Naroditsky but also on the larger chess community.
FIDE has emphasized the importance of evidence in combating cheating allegations, aligning with its anti-cheating regulations. In light of Naroditsky's passing, the federation will also honor his memory by establishing a prize in his name.
As discussions around Kramnik's conduct escalate, the chess world must navigate the challenges posed by online play, which has seen a rise in both interest and toxicity in the wake of the pandemic, altering how players approach competition and accusations.
