International Chess Federation (FIDE)

The International Chess Federation, known by its French acronym FIDE (Fédération Internationale des Échecs), is the global governing body for the sport of chess. Founded in Paris on 20 July 1924, FIDE establishes the official rules of chess, organizes world championship cycles across all age and ability categories, and administers the international rating and titles system used by players in over 200 member federations. FIDE is recognized by the International Olympic Committee as the supreme authority for chess and is a member of the Global Association of International Sports Federations. Its activities span the biennial Chess Olympiad, World Championship matches, continental championships, world youth and cadet events, the World Schools Team Championship, and a wide programme of educational and outreach initiatives such as Chess in Education and Chess for Freedom. Through its national federation members, FIDE coordinates participant entries from each country and ensures uniform application of rules, anti-cheating standards, and fair-play protocols. In India, FIDE works with the All India Chess Federation as the recognized national member, which selects and nominates players for FIDE-rated international youth and senior events. FIDE is headquartered at the Maison du Sport International in Lausanne, Switzerland, alongside other major international sports bodies. Its leadership includes President Arkady Dvorkovich and Deputy President Viswanathan Anand.