The popular chess platform Chess.com hosted the first debate of the 2026 FIDE presidential election on September 9. Moderated by GM Maurice Ashley, the event brought together all three candidates – Jan Henric Buettner, Timur Turlov, and Wadim Rosenstein – to discuss their visions for the future of international chess.
The debate was streamed live on Chess.com, with all three candidates and Ashley participating remotely. The candidates began with opening statements, followed by a moderated discussion covering key topics.
The full recording of the debate is available below: