FIDE has opened nominations for its Athletes Commission elections, inviting players to stand for seats on the body that represents competitors’ interests within the federation. This initiative is crucial for fostering a stronger voice for athletes in the chess community, ensuring that their needs and concerns are adequately addressed.
Structure and Function of the Athletes Commission
The commission will have between five and nine members and must include representation from both genders. The FIDE Council will set the final size based on how many people apply and their readiness to serve. This vote covers an interim two-year term running from 2026 to 2028. The transition is intended to give FIDE and the commission time to finalize clearer rules on how the body should operate and be formed. After this period, FIDE plans for future elections to be organized and decided by players, strengthening the commission’s role as a representative forum for athletes.
FIDE’s interim president, Viswanathan Anand, emphasized that players bring first-hand knowledge of what works well and where improvements are needed. He encouraged capable candidates who will engage with their peers and carry their concerns into policy discussions. Once in place, the new commission is expected to help draft proposals to expand player representation across FIDE structures and refine regulations governing the commission itself. Its work will focus on safeguarding players’ rights, reinforcing integrity measures, and supporting the sport’s continued growth.
Key dates for the election process include the deadline to submit candidacies on 7 October 2026, the final list of verified candidates published by 12 October 2026, and elections to be conducted by the newly elected FIDE Council in October 2026.
Eligibility requirements for candidates include being at least 18 years old, having participated in at least one of the last three FIDE World Championship cycles (open or women’s), possessing sufficient ability to speak and understand English, and not being disqualified by FIDE’s Ethics and Disciplinary Commission.
Endorsement from a national federation is not required. Applications should be submitted by email, including the candidate’s full name and a statement of intent to run for the Athletes Commission. FIDE will acknowledge receipt in writing. Candidates are encouraged, but not obliged, to add a brief note explaining their motivation and what they hope to contribute to the commission’s objectives and the chess community at large.