Press & Interviews:

Jan Henric Buettner – Candidate for FIDE Presidency 2026

Together with Malcolm Pein, Candidate for Deputy President

25.07.26

Statement on the Attack on the Kherson Chess Club

"I am deeply saddened by the news that the chess club in Kherson was struck in yesterday's attack. Chess clubs are places where children and adults come together in peace—to learn, to think, to compete with respect, and to build friendships across generations. They are symbols of education, community, and hope. Seeing such a place damaged by war is heartbreaking. No chess player, no child, and no civilian should have to fear for their safety simply because they gathered around a chessboard. Attacks that harm civilians and destroy places dedicated to learning, culture, and community deserve our unequivocal condemnation. My thoughts are with everyone affected, especially the members of the Kherson chess community who have lost a place that meant so much to them. I hope that the club can one day be rebuilt and once again become a place where people meet in peace. Chess teaches us that even the fiercest contests are governed by rules and respect. War reminds us of the terrible consequences when those principles are abandoned."

Jan Henric Buettner

Candidate for FIDE President 2026

24.07.26

A Personal Statement

"I have taken note of today's developments regarding Arkady Dvorkovich. First and foremost, I would like to express my personal respect for Arkady. Throughout our interactions, I have always found him to be courteous, knowledgeable, and deeply committed to chess. Whatever our differences as candidates in this election, I do not take any satisfaction in personal difficulties faced by anyone. At the same time, it is clear that FIDE operates in an increasingly complex international environment. Recent events once again underline how important it is for our federation to be seen as independent, politically neutral, and focused exclusively on serving the global chess community. My campaign has never been about personalities. It has always been about strengthening FIDE's governance, increasing transparency, empowering our 203 member federations, and ensuring that chess remains a bridge between people rather than a reflection of geopolitical divisions. If elected, I will work with every federation and every member of the chess family, regardless of nationality or political background, while ensuring that FIDE's decisions are guided solely by the interests of chess and its members. This election is not about the past. It is about giving FIDE a future in which its independence can never be questioned and in which every federation has confidence that our organization belongs equally to all of its members."

Jan Henric Buettner

Candidate for FIDE President 2026

Full Article at Chess.com

24.07.26

Ten Statements for the Future of FIDE

Jan Henric Buettner’s Vision for a More Independent, Transparent and Global Chess Federation

A New Chapter for FIDE: Independence, Transparency and Trust

Arkady Dvorkovich deserves credit for stabilising and professionalising FIDE after a difficult period in its history. Under his leadership, the organisation became financially stronger, attracted new sponsors and improved the profile of major competitions. However, FIDE has also become increasingly centralised and dependent on a small leadership circle. Today, the challenge is no longer administrative competence—it is independence, transparency and credibility. FIDE now needs a governance culture that is clearly accountable to its 203 member federations.

FIDE Belongs to Its Member Federations

My guiding principle is simple: FIDE belongs to its federations. They are not recipients of occasional support; they are the owners of the organisation. That is why I would commit to returning 20 per cent of FIDE’s future revenues directly to member federations through a transparent and predictable formula. Stronger federations create stronger national chess programmes, stronger players and ultimately a stronger global chess community.

Transparency Must Become a Core Principle

Modern international sports organisations must meet the highest standards of governance. I would introduce independently audited accounts, greater publication of significant contracts, strict conflict-of-interest rules and full disclosure of relevant commercial relationships. Trust is built when decisions are transparent, finances are understandable and leaders are subject to meaningful oversight.

Democracy and Election Integrity Matter

Innovation and Tradition Can Thrive Together

Chess should embrace innovation without abandoning its foundations. Rapid, blitz, online chess and Freestyle Chess have attracted new audiences, sponsors and media attention. At the same time, the Classical World Championship remains the pinnacle of traditional competitive chess. The goal should not be to choose between formats, but to build a coordinated ecosystem in which every format contributes to the growth of the game.

The World’s Best Players Must Remain Engaged

Creating More Opportunities for Women and Girls

The gender gap in chess begins at the grassroots level. Many girls start playing chess but do not remain in the game because they lack support structures, role models and clear development pathways. FIDE should reward federations that successfully increase female participation and retention, while investing in coaching scholarships, school programmes, mentoring networks and leadership opportunities for women throughout the chess world.

Rules Must Be Applied Fairly and Consistently

Growth Through Entrepreneurship and Global Partnerships

My vision for FIDE is based on growth, not redistribution of existing resources. Chess still has enormous untapped commercial potential in sponsorship, media rights, digital products, education and global partnerships. My experience building international businesses has shown me how to create sustainable growth, attract investment and develop global brands. Those same skills can help unlock the next stage of FIDE’s development.

A Vote for Ownership, Independence and Opportunity

I am not asking federations to vote against anyone. I am asking them to vote for a different relationship between FIDE and its members. I will bring financial independence, entrepreneurial experience, transparency and accountability, while ensuring that federations are treated as genuine partners. My commitment is simple: every federation will know how decisions are made, how money is spent and whose interests are being served. My vision is a FIDE that belongs to its members, embraces innovation and creates opportunities for chess playersat every level.

A FIDE built on ownership, independence and opportunity.

Get in touch

Let's build the future of your federation together.

Over the coming months, my priority is dialogue — to hear your ideas, understand your challenges, and learn how FIDE can better support your federation and your players.

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