Timur Turlov proposes Ukrainian representation in FIDE leadership

Timur Turlov, a candidate for the 2026 FIDE presidency running alongside five-time World Champion Viswanathan Anand, has proposed that Ukraine nominate its own candidate for FIDE Vice President if his team is elected.

In a post on X, Turlov highlighted Ukraine as one of the world’s great chess nations and argued that FIDE cannot operate in isolation from global events. He stated that Ukraine should have a voice in the decision-making processes of the international federation. Turlov extended an invitation to Mykhailo Podolyak, an adviser to the Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, to consider a role in FIDE leadership.

Podolyak expressed support for Turlov’s reform vision and indicated a readiness to personally join the new FIDE team, while emphasizing that international federations should focus on sporting objectives and fair competition.