Today, the first round of the 2026 Chess Olympiad has begun. FIDE is grateful for the organizational efforts of the Uzbekistan Chess Federation and the Olympiad Organizing Committee, headed by Mr. Aripov, Prime Minister of the Republic of Uzbekistan. FIDE is confident that the Olympiad will become a true celebration of chess on the ancient land of Samarkand.
At the same time, unfortunately, a number of players and participants of the FIDE Congress have not yet received the necessary visas. This includes a number of Congress delegates entitled to vote in the upcoming elections, as well as a member of the highest executive body — the FIDE Council — Mr. Benard Wanjala. The FIDE Council expresses confidence that the relevant technical issues will be resolved but considers it its duty to state that the Congress can be held only under conditions in which all persons entitled to participate and vote can exercise their right.
Should the rights of delegates and members of the FIDE Council not be protected and guaranteed, the FIDE Council, in accordance with the FIDE Charter, will consider relocating the FIDE Congress to other dates and location.