Viswanathan Anand Takes Charge as FIDE Interim President
Float Chess News | 24th July 2026
Five-time World Chess Champion Viswanathan Anand has officially taken charge as the Interim President of the International Chess Federation (FIDE).
The announcement follows a temporary transition of leadership as FIDE navigates administrative adjustments ahead of its next general assembly. Anand, who has served as FIDE Deputy President since 2022, is widely respected across the chess world and is expected to bring stability and a player-first perspective to the governing body.
Anand's immediate priorities include expanding chess-in-schools initiatives worldwide, improving financial support for young talents in developing regions, and restructuring the grand prix tournament cycle to create more opportunities for upcoming professionals.
Chess federations and players worldwide have welcomed the move. The transition comes at a time when chess is experiencing unprecedented global growth, driven by online platforms, streaming, and the rise of a new generation of superstars from Asia and Europe.
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