Official statement regarding Igors Rausis
Lausanne, July 16th, 2019.- FIDE herewith officially confirms that during round three of the open tournament in Strasbourg, Grand Master Igors Rausis (CZE) was inspected by the arbiters, who found hard evidence of computer-assisted cheating. GM Rausis admitted using a smartphone for help during the game in public comments. FIDE as a responsible international body is reluctant to comment officially on any additional details before this case is thoroughly investigated by FIDE Fair-Play Commission and FIDE Ethics Commission make a decision. FIDE is committed to fair-play principles, and we are adjusting the regulations in order to fight any kind of cheating, including computer-assisted cheating, with maximal effectiveness as stated in the resolution approved at the FIDE Presidential Board meeting two weeks ago. We will make all necessary efforts to successfully fight cheating, and we are going to make punishments for violations more severe. However, we urge the entire chess community to respect the law and let us work diligently for the benefit of chess.
FIDE signs a new cooperation agreement with the Olympic Channel
Madrid, July 16th, 2019. We are very excited to announce that the International Chess Federation has signed a new cooperation agreement with the Olympic Channel. This collaborative partnerhsip will provide further media coverage of our activities, including highlights from the main competitions, special features involving chess stars, and cross-promotion. The International Chess Federation joins the Olympic Channel family of 91 federation partners which includes International Sports Federations (IFs), recognized federations and organisations, multi-sport organisers and non-recognised federations. “The Olympic Channel provides a platform for the promotion of all sports and athletes within the Olympic Movement,” said Mark Parkman, general manager of the IOC’s global Olympic Channel. “We look forward to working together to help expand the reach of these sports and athletes to fans and new audiences around the world.” The Olympic Channel is an over-the-top (OTT) global media destination where fans can experience the power of sport and the excitement of the Olympic Games all year round. Offering original programming, news, live sports events and highlights, the Olympic Channel provides additional exposure for sports and athletes 24 hours a day, 365 days a year in 11 languages, and is available worldwide at www.olympicchannel.com, its mobile apps and on connected TV devices. Press release at the Olympic Channel corporate website.