World chess body suspends Russia over activities in occupied-Ukraine

The International Chess Federation (FIDE) suspended Russia after it failed to comply with a 90-day deadline to cease activities in occupied Ukrainian regions, following a successful legal challenge by Ukraine at the Court of Arbitration for Sport in March 2026. Adult Russian players may compete in FIDE tournaments under the FIDE flag, not the Russian flag, while juniors may use the Russian flag. The Ukrainian chess federation hailed the decision as a 'historic victory'.