The International Chess Federation (FIDE) has suspended former world champion Vladimir Kramnik for a minimum of one year, citing his unproven allegations of cheating against fellow players, notably the late American grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky. The decision, announced Friday, found Kramnik violated federation rules against cyberbullying by publicly accusing players without adequate evidentiary support.
Kramnik had accused Naroditsky of cheating last year and continued to share his suspicions on social media platforms. Naroditsky, a prominent chess figure known for his educational online content, denied the allegations. The federation stated that while combating cheating is a priority, accusations must be made through official procedures and supported by appropriate evidence.
"He exposed identifiable players to unjustified reputational harm and undermined the safeguards established by the disciplinary framework," the federation said in its decision.
Kramnik has indicated he plans to appeal the suspension. "I am absolutely confident that this unlawful verdict will ultimately be overturned, and I intend to pursue all necessary instances to the very end in order to restore justice and, in particular, my reputation," Kramnik stated in a social media post.
Naroditsky died in October at his North Carolina home. A toxicology report indicated his death was caused by an abnormal heartbeat resulting from an accidental overdose. Before his death, Naroditsky had spoken about the toll Kramnik's accusations had taken on him.
"Ever since the Kramnik stuff, I feel like if I start doing well, people assume the worst of intentions. The issue is just the lingering effect of it," Naroditsky said in his final livestream before his death. Kramnik has called Naroditsky's death a tragedy and denied any factual basis to claims linking him to the event.