Kirsan Ilyumzhinov

Kirsan Ilyumzhinov is a Russian businessman and politician who served as the President of the Republic of Kalmykia from 1993 to 2010 and was the President of the International Chess Federation (FIDE) from 1995 to 2018. Known for his controversial leadership style and unique personality, Ilyumzhinov has been influential in promoting chess globally, particularly in his efforts to expand its reach in countries like Afghanistan. Recently, he was in the news for advocating against the Taliban's ban on chess in Afghanistan, urging the authorities to reconsider their decision based on the sport's cultural and intellectual significance.