The International Chess Federation, known by its acronym FIDE, addressed the incident involving Polish grandmaster Jan-Krzysztof Duda and Russian player Denis Khismatullin. Officials clarified that Duda’s refusal to shake hands with Khismatullin did not violate the federation’s rules. This decision came as FIDE explained that sanctions are typically triggered when the opponent requests sanctions from the ethics commission, a detail that did not apply in the Duda-Khismatullin case. The match, played during the World Rapid Chess Championship, concluded in a draw, and although there was potential for Duda to face disqualification for the handshake incident, Khismatullin did not file a complaint.
In a broader move tied to the ongoing handling of national symbols in sport, FIDE announced in 2022 that Russian and Belarusian players would be restricted from competing under their national flags and with national anthems. Participants in events could still compete under the banners of the Russian Chess Federation or the Belarusian Chess Federation, or under the FIDE flag itself. This policy reflected the federation’s stance on geopolitical tensions and the symbolism associated with national representation at major events.
Earlier, the FIDE Council had made a strategic decision allowing the movement of the Russian Chess Federation from the European Chess Union to the Asian Chess Federation. This reorganization was part of a broader realignment within the chess world, affecting regional affiliations and the paths players take to compete on the international stage.
There has also been public discussion about the rationale behind Duda’s refusal to extend a handshake, with former world champion Anatoly Karpov offering explanations about the moment and its context. The incident sparked debates about sports etiquette, political sensitivities, and the responsibilities of elite players when competing in international tournaments. The dialogue continues to shape how players, federations, and fans interpret gestures of respect in high-stakes settings.