FIDE official Sergei Indeikin dies after suspected malaria infection

Sergei Indeikin, an operations manager for the International Chess Federation (FIDE), has died at the age of 36 following a sudden illness. Reports indicate that Indeikin may have contracted a severe form of malaria after a business trip to Abuja, Nigeria, where he attended the FIDE World Amateur Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships.

After his time in Africa, Indeikin traveled to Uzbekistan, where he reportedly began experiencing health problems. His condition continued to deteriorate as he traveled through Moscow to his home city of Perm, Russia. Despite being taken to a hospital by ambulance, medical professionals were unable to save him.

FIDE released a statement expressing deep sadness over his passing, noting that he had been an integral part of the organization's operations since 2021. He was heavily involved in the behind-the-scenes organization of major international events, including World Championships, World Cups, and various Candidates Tournaments.