Timur Turlov, a 38-year-old Kazakh billionaire born in Russia, is seeking election as president of the International Chess Federation (FIDE) at the congress in Samarkand, Uzbekistan, on Saturday.
Turlov, whose net worth is estimated between €5.2 billion and €7.5 billion from his brokerage firm Freedom Holding, says his interest in chess grew after observing its positive impact on his six children. He argues that chess exemplifies effective use of artificial intelligence, a point he highlighted in a recent interview.
His campaign promises to maintain continuity within FIDE while providing Freedom Holding with a global platform to support the chess community. Turlov positions his program as the most conservative among the three candidates vying for the role.
Background and Context
FIDE, representing 204 national federations, is preparing for its presidential vote after a period of leadership disputes. The organization has been exploring ways to integrate AI tools for training, analysis, and tournament management.
Turlov’s proposal includes expanding AI-driven educational resources and leveraging his corporate network to attract sponsorships. He also emphasizes preserving existing structures and avoiding radical reforms.
What Comes Next
The election results are expected later on Saturday. If elected, Turlov would assume a four‑year term and oversee the rollout of his AI‑focused initiatives while navigating FIDE’s ongoing governance challenges.