The Kazakhstan Chess Federation commented on statements by Kazakh GM Bibisara Assaubayeva’s mother about Bibisara’s funding. The Federation cites the funding source, the annual budget, and the amount allocated to Assaubayeva over the past three years.

Kazakhstan Chess Federation

Kazakhstan Chess Federation

National governing body

“Today, the Federation’s annual budget exceeds 5 billion tenge. Funding comes from a single source — Freedom Holding Corp.

Bibisara Assaubayeva receives the largest amount of financial support among all athletes. The total amount of funds received by the chess player for 2023-2026 is approximately 388 million tenge (~$837,000).”

Liana Tanzharikova posted three videos on Instagram criticizing the Kazakhstan Chess Federation’s funding system. She cited a lack of stable payments and difficulties receiving bonuses.

Kazakh GM Bibisara Assaubayeva is Kazakhstan’s No. 1 female chess player and a three-time World Blitz Champion. Assaubayeva finished second at the 2026 FIDE Candidates Tournament in April.

Credit: Bibisara Assaubayeva Telegram