FIDE in close contact with Cypriot authorities
With the start of the Candidates Tournaments drawing closer, concerns about regional instability have prompted questions over whether the event in Cyprus could be affected. In an interview with Sagar Shah for ChessBase India, FIDE CEO Emil Sutovsky addressed these issues in detail, discussing the federation’s preparations, its assessment of the current situation and the practical steps being taken to ensure the tournament proceeds as scheduled.
Sutovsky stated that FIDE’s plans remain unchanged despite recent geopolitical tensions. While acknowledging Cyprus’ relative proximity to areas experiencing conflict, he emphasised that the country is not directly involved and is not facing an emergency situation. Organisers are continuing to monitor developments on a daily basis and remain in regular contact with state authorities, seeking updated information and guidance.
He also highlighted the significance of the Candidates from the host nation’s perspective, noting that it is viewed as a major international sporting event. The president of Cyprus is expected to open the tournament, reflecting the level of official support. Although FIDE has prepared contingency plans for a range of possible scenarios, Sutovsky maintained that there are currently no reasonable grounds to postpone the event or move it to a different location.
The luxurious Cap St Georges Hotel & Resort will be the venue of the 2026 Candidates and Women’s Candidates Tournaments | Photo: FIDE
Much of the uncertainty in recent weeks has centred on travel logistics. Disruptions affecting flight routes through Middle Eastern transit hubs have complicated travel plans for several participants, particularly players arriving from Asia. Sutovsky explained that alternative routes via European cities such as London, Vienna or Frankfurt have been identified, and that FIDE is prepared to cover additional costs to ensure that all players and key personnel can reach the venue without undue difficulty.
The FIDE chief acknowledged that some competitors had sought clarification regarding safety conditions, describing these concerns as understandable, especially for those unfamiliar with the region. He stressed that the federation’s role is to provide clear and accurate information rather than react hastily to speculation, and pointed to ongoing communication with players, federations and organisers as an important part of the preparation process.
Alongside the sporting contest itself, organisers are planning a range of accompanying activities aimed at improving the overall experience for spectators. The official broadcast will feature grandmasters Peter Svidler and Jan Gustafsson, while former world champion Viswanathan Anand and other notable figures are expected to take part in commentary segments, fan-zone appearances and educational sessions.
Additional initiatives include historical exhibitions on the Candidates cycle and youth-oriented events for local players.
Full video interview
Max Euwe became the fifth World Chess Champion after beating Alexander Alekhine in the 1935 World Championship match. A maths teacher by profession, Euwe remained an amateur throughout his life, but was still the best chess player in the Netherlands, and one of the world’s best players. Euwe holds the record for the most Dutch national championships, with twelve. After winning the World Championship, Euwe was also the world’s best player for a while. He lost the title again in 1937 in the rematch against Alexander Alekhine.
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