In a dramatic development that has rocked the chess world, FIDE CEO Emil Sutovsky has publicly condemned former World Champion Vladimir Kramnik for what he describes as "shameful" conduct toward American Grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky.
The Explosive Accusation
Sutovsky didn't mince words when addressing Kramnik's recent behaviour, stating that the chess legend's actions crossed professional boundaries and set a dangerous precedent for the sport. The FIDE CEO emphasized that such conduct undermines the integrity and sportsmanship that chess represents globally.
Background of the Conflict
The controversy stems from Kramnik's persistent criticism and targeting of Naroditsky, particularly regarding online play and streaming activities. Sutovsky revealed that the situation had escalated to a point where intervention became necessary to protect the community's standards and individual players' well-being.
FIDE's Firm Stance
The chess governing body has taken a clear position: professional conduct must be maintained at all levels of the game. Sutovsky's strong statement signals FIDE's commitment to addressing behavioural issues head-on, regardless of a player's status or past achievements in the sport.
Community Reaction
The chess community has been divided by the incident, with many expressing support for Sutovsky's firm stance while others question the public nature of the criticism. The situation highlights ongoing tensions between traditional chess values and the new era of online chess streaming and content creation.
This public condemnation from FIDE's top official represents a significant moment in modern chess governance, demonstrating the organization's willingness to address player conduct issues transparently and decisively.
