15th World Champion Viswanathan Anand explained why he will not run for re-election as FIDE Deputy President in September. Vishy says he wants to spend more time with his family, and notes that he will remain part of the team.

Viswanathan Anand

Viswanathan Anand

15th World Champion

“I simply wanted to have more time at home…

My son will probably go to university in 3 years. So, I thought these are the years I should be here, and I think that was kind of a big motivation to get a different role.

But I’m still very much part of the team. And I will contribute what I can!”

Viswanathan Anand has been serving as the FIDE Deputy President since 2022. Anand was elected to the post alongside FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich during the FIDE Congress in Chennai. In June, Dvorkovich announced that Anand will not contest the post.

The FIDE President and Deputy President elections 2026 will take place at the General Assembly in Samarkand, Uzbekistan from September 26 to 27. Arkady Dvorkovich submitted his application in June.

Credit: Michal Walusza / FIDE