The Youth and Sports Ministry of Bulgaria reported that FIDE has postponed sanctions against Bulgaria until September 30, 2026. Bulgarian players will be able to participate in the 46th Chess Olympiad, held from September 15 to 27.

FIDE has sent an official letter to the Ministry and thanked it for the constructive approach to the situation in Bulgarian chess. FIDE stated that it is ready to take part in meetings to resolve the situation and will coordinate with the European Chess Union (ECU).

In 2016, FIDE and the ECU expelled the original Bulgarian Chess Federation for financial misconduct and misallocation of funds. FIDE and ECU started a process to create the Bulgarian Sports Chess Federation (BSCF). Some Bulgarian sports officials and clubs disagreed and formed an alternative organization, the Bulgarian Chess Federation 2022 (BCF 2022).

BSCF is recognized by FIDE and ECU. BCF 2022 holds the official national license from the Bulgarian Ministry of Youth and Sports. Due to the legal uncertainty of holding the national license, the country cannot fully finance players, and it is difficult to prevent corruption and regulation violations.

FIDE and the ECU have warned that Bulgarian players may face restrictions from competing under their national flag, and international tournaments in the country will lose official status after July 1, 2026. If the federation split is resolved, Bulgarian players will not face restrictions.

Credit: Michal Walusza / FIDE