FIDE, as the international federation overseeing the game of chess, has issued a statement addressing the situation involving Grandmasters Vladimir Kramnik and David Navara. The statement outlines FIDE`s position on both the fundamental issue of fair play and the handling of related public discourse that has unfortunately escalated into a personal legal matter.
Recognizing the paramount importance of fair play in chess, both over-the-board and online, FIDE asserts its commitment to the integrity of the game. The federation acknowledges the methods publicly proposed by GM Kramnik concerning cheating detection, noting that these approaches deserve careful review and assessment for their practical application. To this end, FIDE has announced plans to establish a dedicated task force. GM Kramnik is invited to formally present the specifics of his methodology and any supporting statistical data for an official evaluation by FIDE`s experts. This step indicates a willingness by FIDE to scientifically examine suggested advancements in detecting unfair play.
However, FIDE`s statement pivots to express significant concern regarding the manner in which this issue has been handled publicly. The federation states that the way Mr. Kramnik has presented his points is causing “a lot of harm” to the chess community. FIDE emphasizes that these are perceived not merely as opinions or questions, but as forming “a very clear narrative.” Coming from a former World Champion, such a narrative carries immense weight and, according to FIDE, has the potential to be “ruinous for the careers and a very well-being of certain players.”
This public discourse has directly impacted respected members of the chess community, notably GM David Navara. The situation has now escalated to a defamation lawsuit filed by GM Kramnik against GM Navara.
FIDE takes a clear stance on GM Navara`s character within the statement. They stress that throughout his career, GM Navara has earned an “unquestionable reputation as a paragon of a fair play.” Described as a person of “great sensitivity and integrity,” FIDE highlights that he is “particularly vulnerable to any implication of unfair play.” This strong defense underscores FIDE`s confidence in Navara`s ethical conduct and history.
Without delving into the specifics of the legal arguments or the exact phrasing used in the public exchange, FIDE prioritizes the principle of “mutual respect and empathy among colleagues.” They articulate a strong belief that the lawsuit filed against GM Navara “should be withdrawn as soon as possible.” FIDE frames this action not just as a personal matter, but as being “in the interest of the entire chess community.” The federation concludes this point by sincerely hoping GM Kramnik will take this “morally justified step,” anticipating it would be “welcomed by the broader chess world.”
In essence, FIDE`s statement serves as a dual message: acknowledging the technical importance of fair play detection methods and committing to evaluating them formally, while simultaneously drawing a line against public accusations and conflicts that harm individuals and the overall harmony of the chess community. The explicit call for the withdrawal of the lawsuit against GM Navara underscores FIDE`s position on the appropriate conduct among players, particularly when serious allegations are involved.
