FIDE CEO Criticizes Posthumous Praise for Naroditsky Amid Kramnik Controversy

FIDE CEO Emil Sutovsky condemned Vladimir Kramnik's comments about Daniel Naroditsky following the latter's death. Sutovsky criticized the sudden outpouring of affection for Naroditsky, who faced loneliness and unsubstantiated cheat allegations. The chess world, including Magnus Carlsen, expressed concern over the impact of these accusations on Naroditsky's mental health.

Emil Sutovsky, CEO of the International Chess Federation (FIDE), has decried former world champion Vladimir Kramnik's derogatory remarks about American Grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky as "appalling and outright shameful." These comments came in light of Naroditsky's tragic passing, which sparked widespread sympathy across the chess community.

Naroditsky, who died unexpectedly at 29, faced unfounded cheating allegations from Kramnik and struggled with psychological issues prior to his death. His family has yet to disclose the exact cause of his demise. Sutovsky criticized the absence of support for Naroditsky during his life, contrasting it with the substantial posthumous admiration.

Voices from the chess community, including world number one Magnus Carlsen, expressed concern about the harm caused by Kramnik's accusations. While some alleged friends of Naroditsky show belated affection, Sutovsky questioned why more wasn't done to help him in his darkest times.

(With inputs from agencies.)