Vladimir Kramnik, a former world chess champion, is under investigation for bullying following the unexpected death of fellow grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky. The World Chess Federation, FIDE, announced this inquiry in light of allegations that Kramnik had harassed Naroditsky, who passed away at the age of 29. Naroditsky, a prominent figure in online chess, was well-known for his streaming and educational content.
Background on Daniel Naroditsky
Naroditsky was born in the San Francisco Bay Area and started playing chess at the age of six. He became a grandmaster before his senior year in high school and gained a substantial following online. His YouTube channel boasted over 500,000 subscribers, while he had around 340,000 followers on Twitch. In 2022, he contributed as a chess columnist for the New York Times.
Kramnik’s Accusations and Subsequent Investigation
Kramnik accused Naroditsky of cheating in online chess matches, claims Naroditsky vehemently denied. During his final Twitch stream, he expressed the mental strain caused by Kramnik’s accusations, noting their impact on how others perceived his play. Kramnik has since denied any wrongdoing, claiming he hopes the truth regarding Naroditsky’s death will be uncovered.
FIDE’s Response to the Allegations
FIDE president Arkady Dvorkovich indicated that Kramnik’s behavior was reckless. He acknowledged the need for an independent investigation by the ethics commission. Dvorkovich emphasized that bullying or harassment in chess is intolerable, stating, “The chess community has long respected the achievements of GM Vladimir Kramnik, but he must adhere to the same standards of fairness and respect.”
Reactions from the Chess Community
Since Naroditsky’s passing, several prominent figures in chess have condemned Kramnik’s actions. Five-time world champion Magnus Carlsen labeled Kramnik’s behavior “horrible,” while Hikaru Nakamura described it as “nonsense.”
- Nemo Zhou, a woman grandmaster, called for Kramnik’s removal from FIDE records.
- Nihal Sarin highlighted the immense pressure Naroditsky faced due to the persistent accusations, noting they contributed to his distress.
Kramnik’s Perspective
In an interview with Russian media, Kramnik criticized FIDE’s investigation, referring to it as “insulting” and a “shameful campaign.” He reiterated his stance against cheating in online chess, describing it as a significant issue that required attention.
The Legacy of Daniel Naroditsky
Naroditsky was not only recognized for his chess prowess but also for his ability to connect with a broad audience through streaming and commentary. His contributions to chess education and engagement left a lasting impact on the community. Dvorkovich remembers him as “a bright person, grandmaster, educator, and commentator” beloved by many.
