FIDE President Arkady Dvorkovich reflected on FIDE’s progress in an interview with David Martinez. Dvorkovich says that FIDE is in a strong position, and notes the budgets the federation has raised over the years.

Arkady Dvorkovich

Arkady Dvorkovich

FIDE President

“Focusing just on the facts, progress is clear: FIDE is in a stronger position than ever before, despite the very challenging global circumstances. In the eight years since I took office, FIDE has become more professionally governed, significantly increased the number of events and partners, and become more active in supporting players and federations.

This progress is reflected in FIDE’s finances: during my tenure, the organization’s budget has grown fivefold. Looking just at the 2026 budget – it reaches €18.85 million, including €1.75 million for federation, continental, women’s, social and development programmes, and more than €11.5 million for major chess events.

Over the past eight years, we have been able to raise close to €100 million for FIDE and its events – an unprecedented amount in our history!

By securing major international partnerships and sponsorships we were able to bring international events across the world, truly expanding the global reach of chess beyond the traditional countries and regions. And we have achieved all this despite the complicated political and economic situation globally.

What I offer is proven experience, a successful track record, a strong and expanding team, and the determination to turn ambitious ideas into measurable results for every federation.”

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

Credit: Michal Walusza / FIDE