Chess is enjoying a period of remarkable worldwide growth, driven by online platforms, school programmes and a new generation of players. As a candidate for FIDE President in 2026, Timur Turlov presents a programme designed to turn this momentum into lasting progress. His vision combines modern technology, stronger institutions and practical support for national federations, while keeping players and the wider chess community at the centre of FIDE’s work.
The programme is built around a straightforward idea: global growth should create opportunities for everyone. FIDE brings together more than 200 Member Federations, each with its own strengths, needs and level of resources. Turlov’s proposals therefore focus not only on major international competitions, but also on the structures that help chess develop locally—from digital services and educational projects to funding models and professional standards.
Leadership Experience Behind the Programme
Turlov approaches the future of FIDE from the perspective of an entrepreneur, investor and chess administrator. His experience as President of the Kazakhstan Chess Federation and President of the International School Chess Federation has given him direct insight into the challenges faced by organisers, schools, players and national bodies. It has also reinforced his belief that long-term success depends on clear strategy, responsible governance and reliable partnerships.
This practical background is reflected in a programme that links ambitions with concrete areas of action. Rather than treating the growth of chess as a temporary wave of popularity, Turlov proposes building the institutional and financial foundations needed to sustain it. The emphasis is on measurable development, equal access to services and a FIDE that acts as a dependable partner to every federation.
A Strong Partnership with Viswanathan Anand
The candidacy also brings together two complementary forms of experience. Viswanathan Anand, standing for the position of FIDE Deputy President, is a five-time World Champion, India’s first grandmaster and one of the most respected figures in modern chess. His career spans several eras of the game, while his work as FIDE Deputy President since 2022 has added significant administrative experience to his sporting achievements.
For the chess community, this partnership offers a balance between strategic management and first-hand knowledge of elite competition. Anand understands the needs of players and the importance of youth development, while Turlov brings experience in building organisations, attracting investment and creating sustainable systems. Together, they present a team capable of connecting FIDE’s global responsibilities with the everyday realities of the people who play, teach and organise chess.
Digital Transformation for Every Federation
Digital transformation is one of the central priorities in Turlov’s vision. Although online chess has helped millions of people discover the game, access to modern digital tools remains uneven across national federations. A unified FIDE platform could make essential services more convenient, transparent and accessible, particularly for organisations that do not have the resources to develop their own systems.
Modern infrastructure could simplify tournament administration, communication, education and interaction between federations, officials and players. Shared tools would also make it easier to exchange expertise and apply consistent standards internationally. The goal is not technology for its own sake, but technology that saves time, reduces barriers and helps every federation participate fully in the global chess ecosystem.
Making Chess a Part of Education
Chess in education is another major pillar of the programme. The game can help children practise concentration, logical thinking, patience and decision-making, making it a valuable addition to educational environments. Turlov’s proposals aim to expand chess within national education systems and ensure that access does not depend on a child’s location or family circumstances.
Achieving this goal will require more than simply supplying chess sets. Sustainable programmes need trained teachers, suitable learning materials, cooperation with education authorities and opportunities for children to continue developing their skills. By helping federations build this infrastructure, FIDE could give school chess a stronger and more consistent foundation while introducing the game to millions of new players.
Supporting the Global Development of Chess
The international chess community includes both well-established federations and organisations working with limited budgets, small teams or inadequate infrastructure. Turlov’s programme recognises that the future of the game depends on narrowing these gaps. Targeted assistance, training and access to shared services could help emerging federations organise more events, support young talent and establish lasting development programmes.
Equality among federations is presented as a fundamental principle. Regardless of size, geography or commercial influence, every Member Federation should be treated with respect and have a meaningful voice in FIDE. This approach could broaden the game’s global reach while creating more pathways for talented players from countries where competitive chess is still developing.
Financial Sustainability and Professional Opportunities
Ambitious projects require stable funding. For that reason, financial sustainability is closely connected to the programme’s educational, digital and developmental goals. Turlov proposes helping federations attract partners and establish reliable, long-term sources of income instead of depending mainly on occasional grants or individual events.
A stronger financial base would benefit the entire professional chess community. Players need dependable competition structures, while coaches, arbiters and organisers need clear standards and opportunities for career development. Volunteers also deserve better support and recognition. By strengthening the economic foundations of chess, FIDE can help turn passion and expertise into sustainable professional pathways.
Fairness, Inclusion and Chess for Everyone
A truly global strategy must ensure that growth reaches groups and communities that have historically received fewer opportunities. The programme includes a commitment to women’s chess through larger prize funds, dedicated competitions and stronger representation of women in FIDE leadership and management. These measures can help increase participation while making professional chess more inclusive at every level.
Social initiatives are equally important. Chess can be played across generations and does not require expensive facilities, which gives it exceptional potential as a community activity. Supporting federation-led social programmes would allow the game to reach more schools, smaller towns and underserved communities. In this vision, chess is not reserved for elite competitors; it is a shared cultural and educational resource open to everyone.
Transparent Governance and a Predictable Chess Calendar
Trust is essential for any international federation. Turlov places transparency, accountability, professionalism and institutional independence among the principles behind his programme. Clear decision-making and responsible governance would give Member Federations greater confidence that FIDE is acting consistently and in the interests of the game.
Predictability also matters in sport. A stable World Championship cycle and an international calendar published well in advance would help players plan their seasons, organisers prepare events and partners make long-term commitments. Better coordination can reduce scheduling conflicts and create a clearer structure for fans, media and everyone working within professional chess.
A Long-Term Vision for FIDE
Timur Turlov’s priorities form a connected strategy rather than a collection of separate initiatives. Digital services can make FIDE more accessible; educational programmes can bring new generations into the game; stronger financing can support federations and professionals; and transparent governance can build the trust needed to make every other reform effective.
At a time when chess has an unprecedented global audience, the opportunity is not merely to celebrate its popularity but to build on it. With a focus on sustainability, fairness, professionalism and service to the game, Turlov’s programme offers a positive vision of FIDE as a modern, supportive and genuinely global organisation—one prepared to help chess flourish in every federation and every community.
