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Russian chess player Vladimir Kramnik is being investigated over claims he bullied US grandmaster Daniel Naroditsky before his death.
Daniel Naroditsky, 29, passed away earlier this week at his home in North Carolina, with the cause of death not having been made public.
The news rocked the chess community, and now, an investigation is being launched into his Russian rival.
Chess rivalries are nothing new and have long been a mainstay, just like any sport, but concerns have been raised by fans about the relationship between Naroditsky and Kramnik.
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Naroditsky’s fans have long claimed that he had been ‘bullied relentlessly online’ by Kramnik - accusations of which he denies.
The 50-year-old has accused several players of cheating in games, including Naroditsky, leading to an ongoing feud.
He would routinely post online about his 'concerns' around his younger rival and call for an investigation into his play.
In October of last year, Naroditsky had addressed the feud and claimed Kramnik’s efforts were ‘sustained, evil and absolutely unhinged attempt to destroy my life'.
The International Chess Federation (FIDE) has announced that it has referred Kramnik’s alleged behavior to its ethics and disciplinary commission.
FIDE president Arkady Dvorkovich said in a statement: "I, along with the FIDE management board, will formally refer all relevant public statements made by GM (grandmaster) Vladimir Kramnik - both before and after the tragic death of GM Daniel Naroditsky - to the FIDE Ethics and Disciplinary Commission for independent consideration."
Following news of an investigation, Kramnik has denied any wrongdoing and argued that he has been a victim of bullying from members of the chess community and even received death threats.
Speaking to Reuters, he said: “What public statement after the death of Daniel was incorrect? ... I have not bullied Daniel Naroditsky, nor ever made personal insults towards him."
The shocking announcement of Naroditsky’s death has left many fans reflecting on his impressive career at just 29.
The former world junior champion achieved the highest rank in chess at just 18 and has penned multiple books on the sport.
He also took to social media in 2019 to both play and talk about the sport in YouTube videos, further introducing a new generation to the game.
The Charlotte Chess Center, where he coached junior players, announced his passing on Monday (October 20).
Its statement read: "Daniel was a talented chess player, commentator and educator, and a cherished member of the chess community, admired and respected by fans and players around the world.
"He was also a loving son and brother, and a loyal friend to many... Let us remember Daniel for his passion and love for the game of chess, and for the joy and inspiration he brought to us all every day."
