The world of chess is in shock and mourning following the sudden passing of highly respected U.S. Grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky at just 29 years old. Amidst an outpouring of grief and calls for accountability, FIDE, the international chess federation, confirmed on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, that it is formally investigating public allegations made by former world champion Vladimir Kramnik against Naroditsky.
While the specific cause of Naroditsky’s death remains undisclosed, the tragic news has sent ripples through the global chess community.
Emil Sutovsky, CEO of FIDE, confirmed to Reuters that the organization is actively scrutinizing Kramnik’s prolonged campaign, which for over a year has targeted Naroditsky with accusations of online cheating.
Naroditsky, beloved for his commentary and engaging streams, consistently denied these serious allegations. In what is now recognized as his final Twitch broadcast last weekend, a visibly distraught Naroditsky spoke about the immense strain and emotional toll the controversy had inflicted upon him, according to a video that has since been removed.
Prominent figures in the chess world have reacted with strong condemnation of Kramnik’s actions. World No. 2 Hikaru Nakamura, in a live stream after Naroditsky’s death, vociferously denounced Kramnik’s behavior. Separately, former world champion Magnus Carlsen described Kramnik’s treatment of Naroditsky as ‘horrible’ in his own broadcast.
The outcry extends to other top players and personalities. Indian Grandmaster Nihal Sarin took to X (formerly Twitter) to assert that Kramnik ‘needs to pay for what he’s doing,’ highlighting the ‘immense stress’ Naroditsky allegedly endured due to the accusations. Chess streamer Nemo Zhou echoed these sentiments, urging FIDE to step in and calling the ongoing situation ‘unacceptable.’
FIDE has publicly extended its deepest condolences to Naroditsky’s grieving family. The federation also announced plans to honor his memory with a special award, acknowledging his significant contributions as an exceptional player, dedicated teacher, and insightful commentator.
Kramnik, who has a history of leveling similar public accusations against other players in recent years, stated to Reuters, ‘I’d rather tell the story in whole, no wish commenting on Emil Sutovsky statement, but will comment on FIDE president (Arkady Dvorkovich) statement, if it will appear.’ This indicates his intent to speak further once higher FIDE officials make a statement.
As a former world champion from 2000-2007, Kramnik is undeniably regarded as one of chess’s all-time greatest players.
Beyond his on-board talent, Naroditsky was a prominent and beloved personality in the online chess world. A Stanford graduate and former world under-12 champion, whose parents emigrated from the Soviet Union, he amassed hundreds of thousands of followers on platforms like YouTube and Twitch. His recent achievements included a ninth-place finish in last year’s blitz world championship.