The International Chess Federation (FIDE) is considering disciplinary action against Garry Kasparov, a former world chess champion, for repeated and unsubstantiated accusations of cheating leveled against Grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky. The announcement came Wednesday as the controversy surrounding Kasparov’s public statements continues to draw scrutiny within the chess community.

FIDE stated that it is reviewing Kasparov's conduct following his persistent claims regarding Naroditsky's integrity. These allegations, which have not been substantiated by any evidence, began circulating online and escalated during and after Naroditsky’s participation in the 2023 Speed Chess Championship. FIDE did not specify what form the discipline might take, but indicated they are taking the matter seriously due to the potential damage to the reputation of the sport and the players involved.

Kasparov, who held the world chess champion title from 1985 to 2000, has publicly questioned Naroditsky’s performance, suggesting possible use of unauthorized assistance. These claims have been widely dismissed by other chess professionals and commentators, who point to Naroditsky's consistent strong play and the lack of any concrete proof supporting Kasparov’s assertions. Naroditsky himself has not publicly responded extensively to the allegations, but his representatives have conveyed his disappointment and concern over the situation.

The controversy highlights the ongoing challenges of maintaining fair play and addressing accusations within the competitive chess world. While FIDE has robust anti-cheating measures in place, the public nature of these accusations and the prominent figure involved present a unique challenge. FIDE's investigation aims to determine whether Kasparov’s actions violated the organization’s code of conduct and whether disciplinary action is warranted. The outcome of this review could have significant implications for how such accusations are handled in the future and the protection of players' reputations.