Samarkand to Host FIDE Presidential Elections This September
The ancient city of Samarkand is set to become the focal point of the global chess community this year as it prepares to host the International Chess Federation (FIDE) presidential elections. The vote will be held during the organisation’s General Assembly between September 26 and 27.
This electoral event forms part of the wider FIDE Congress which is scheduled to take place in the Uzbek city from September 20 to 27.
FIDE has established a strict timeline for prospective leadership candidates. The deadlines are structured as follows:
- President and Deputy President: Applications must be submitted by July 26.
- Vice-President and Zonal Head: Paperwork must be filed by August 26.
All necessary documentation must be sent directly to the official FIDE email address at office@fide.com. The governing body has clarified that electronic or scanned signatures on PDF documents are perfectly valid provided there is no ambiguity regarding their authorship or origin.
To successfully qualify for the ballot, all candidates must secure formal backing from national chess federations. The required level of support varies depending on the desired role. Presidential hopefuls must obtain a minimum of five recommendations from FIDE member federations. Vice-Presidential candidates require the formal support of at least three member federations.
Furthermore, the international chess organisation has issued a firm reminder regarding campaign regulations. All promotional activities and canvassing for candidates are strictly confined to the official election period which commences exactly three months prior to the vote.
