Top European sports organisation approves Russia's departure

(RT) ⸻ International governing body FIDE has announced that Russia is free to leave the European Chess Union (ECU) and join its Asian counterpart, the Asian Chess Federation (ACF). The decision follows a request by the Chess Federation of Russia (CFR). The ACF is expected to decide on Russia's request at its General Assembly, which will be held in Abu Dhabi on February 28. If the ACF does accept Russia, the country would automatically withdraw from the ECU, and Russia will be redesignated as part of the Asian region starting from May 1. Russian chess players who wish to join other federations in light of the potential changes can do so immediately upon request and without incurring any fees. Back in March 2022, FIDE allowed chess players from Russia and Belarus to continue to participate at international tournaments, but only under neutral status. The ACF currently features 54 national federations, including prominent chess powers such as China, India, and Uzbekistan. FIDE's decision comes ahead of a world title contest between Russian grandmaster Ian Nepomniachtchi and Chinese rival Ding Liren. A new world champion will be crowned following the withdrawal of Magnus Carlsen of Norway, who announced last year that he would not be defending his title in 2023.