About
Kirsan Ilyumzhinov is a Russian businessman, administrator, and politician known for his involvement in both the political and sporting spheres. He served as President of the Republic of Kalmykia in the Russian Federation from 1993 to 2010, playing a significant role in regional governance. Additionally, Ilyumzhinov held the position of president of FIDE, the international governing body for chess, from 1995 to 2018, making him a prominent figure in the global chess community. Beyond his administrative roles, he has also been an advocate for promoting chess in schools both in Russia and internationally.
Career Timeline
President of Kalmykia
Elected President of Kalmykia, entering politics.
FIDE President
Elected President of FIDE, international recognition.
Chess City Development
Oversees development of Chess City in Kalmykia.
US Sanctions
Faces US sanctions, affecting his business interests.
Resigns from FIDE
Resigns from FIDE presidency, ending long tenure.
Businessman and Chess Advocate
Continues as a businessman and advocates for chess. Remains a controversial, but prominent figure.
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Last updated: February 21, 2026