FIDE President Elections 2026: Everything You Need to Know

Every four years, the chess world chooses the person who will lead its most important organization. In 2026, delegates from nearly 200 national chess federations will vote to elect the next President of the International Chess Federation (FIDE). The result will shape the future of professional chess through 2030.

Unlike the World Chess Championship, the FIDE presidential election rarely attracts mainstream attention. However, its outcome can influence tournament formats, prize funds, ratings, chess development programs, and even how FIDE responds to political issues. This year’s election is already attracting more interest than usual because several high-profile candidates are preparing to compete.

Here is everything you need to know about the 2026 FIDE presidential election.

When Will the Election Take Place?

The 2026 FIDE presidential election will be held during the FIDE General Assembly in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. The FIDE Congress runs from September 20 to September 27, with the presidential election scheduled for September 26–27.

The General Assembly is the highest decision-making body in FIDE. Representatives from member federations gather to vote on important issues, including elections, rule changes, and financial matters.

Who Gets to Vote?

Unlike public elections, chess fans do not vote directly.

Instead, each FIDE member federation has one vote in the General Assembly. FIDE currently has about 200 member federations from around the world, meaning every recognized national federation has an equal voice regardless of the country’s chess strength.

Candidates spend months building support from these federations before election day.

Who Can Run for President?

Running for FIDE President is not as simple as announcing a campaign.

A presidential candidate must submit a complete ticket that includes a candidate for Deputy President. The ticket also needs endorsements from at least five and no more than eight member federations. Those endorsements must include support from all four FIDE continental regions: Africa, the Americas, Asia, and Europe.

This system encourages candidates to build international support instead of relying on one region alone.

The Main Candidates

Arkady Dvorkovich

The biggest name in the election is incumbent President Arkady Dvorkovich.

The former Russian deputy prime minister has led FIDE since 2018. During his presidency, FIDE has expanded online chess, increased sponsorship, improved prize funds in several events, and strengthened relationships with major commercial partners. He also oversaw chess during the COVID-19 pandemic, when online competitions became essential.

In early July 2026, Dvorkovich officially confirmed that he will seek a third term. His running mate for Deputy President is Kazakh businessman Timur Turlov.

Wadim Rosenstein

One of the most serious challengers is German entrepreneur Wadim Rosenstein.

Rosenstein has positioned himself as a reform candidate. His campaign focuses on governance, transparency, and giving member federations a stronger voice in FIDE decisions. His deputy presidential candidate is Chinese businessman Gordon Tang.

Jan Henric Buettner

Another German businessman, Jan Henric Buettner, has also entered the race.

Buettner is best known in chess for organizing the Freestyle Chess events that have attracted many of the world’s strongest players. His decision to run adds another well-known figure to the election and could split support among federations looking for change.

Why Is Dvorkovich’s Third-Term Bid Controversial?

One of the biggest talking points is that Dvorkovich originally supported term limits.

When he first ran for FIDE President in 2018, limiting presidents to two terms was presented as an important governance reform. However, in 2023, the FIDE General Assembly voted to remove presidential term limits, making it possible for Dvorkovich to run again in 2026.

Supporters argue that successful leaders should be allowed to continue if member federations still trust them. Critics believe removing term limits weakens accountability and contradicts earlier promises.

This issue has become one of the central themes of the current campaign.

Politics Remain Part of the Discussion

Politics has long been part of FIDE elections, and 2026 is no exception.

Dvorkovich’s past role in the Russian government continues to draw attention, especially following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Although he has remained FIDE President throughout the conflict, several decisions involving Russian participation in international chess have generated debate among member federations.

Recently, FIDE suspended the Russian Chess Federation after a ruling by the Court of Arbitration for Sport related to chess organizations operating in occupied Ukrainian territories. However, discussions continue over how Russian players and teams should participate in future events.

While these issues are separate from the presidential election itself, they inevitably influence how some federations view FIDE’s current leadership.

What Issues Matter Most?

Several topics are likely to dominate the campaign.

Governance and transparency remain major concerns. Many federations want clearer financial reporting, more open decision-making, and better communication between FIDE leadership and member countries.

Growing chess worldwide is another priority. Candidates are expected to present plans for increasing participation, especially among juniors, women, and developing chess nations.

Commercial growth also matters. Modern chess depends increasingly on sponsorship, broadcasting, and online platforms. Federations want a president who can continue attracting investment while maintaining FIDE’s independence.

Finally, relations with elite players could become an important issue. In recent years, events outside the official FIDE calendar, including Freestyle Chess tournaments, have created new questions about how FIDE should cooperate or compete with private organizers.

How Does the Voting Work?

The election is decided by secret ballot.

Each eligible federation casts one vote. The presidential candidate who receives a majority of votes becomes FIDE President for the next four-year term.

Unlike national elections, campaigning often focuses on meetings with federation officials rather than public rallies. Candidates typically travel extensively, attend international tournaments, and present detailed programs to delegates before the vote.

Why Should Chess Fans Care?

Many fans pay close attention to world championship games but ignore FIDE politics. However, the president has significant influence over the direction of international chess.

The FIDE President helps shape tournament calendars, oversees major championships, appoints commissions, negotiates commercial partnerships, and represents chess before organizations such as the International Olympic Committee.

Decisions made during one presidential term can affect players at every level, from children entering their first FIDE-rated tournament to grandmasters competing for world titles.

What Happens Next?

The campaign is expected to become more active throughout the summer as candidates visit federations and seek endorsements.

Official candidacies must meet FIDE’s nomination requirements before the deadline, after which campaigns will intensify ahead of the General Assembly in September.