Chess | 'I am not supportive of that': D Gukesh slams Vladimir Kramnik over cheating allegations
Times of India
by TOI SPORTS DESKFebruary 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
World chess champion D Gukesh has strongly criticized former world champion Vladimir Kramnik's cheating allegations, calling them unsupported by evidence and harmful to the sport. Speaking ahead of the Prague International Chess Festival, Gukesh emphasized his opposition to unfair play but criticized the manner in which accusations are being made publicly without concrete proof. He expressed concern that such unfounded claims are creating unnecessary suspicion among players and fans, overshadowing genuine issues within the chess community.
Gukesh specifically addressed Kramnik's repeated allegations against various players, stating they lack evidence and contribute to a toxic atmosphere in the sport. He urged for greater harmony and fairness, aligning with other top names like Viswanathan Anand and FIDE officials who have also spoken out against baseless accusations. Gukesh highlighted that while cheating is a problem, it should be addressed through proper channels rather than being sensationalized in public forums.
The controversy underscores broader concerns about the integrity of chess competitions and the impact of unfounded claims on player trust. As the debate continues, many in the chess community are calling for a more balanced approach to addressing potential misconduct. Gukesh, who is currently India's highest-ranked player, will compete in the Prague festival aiming to rebuild momentum after mixed results at recent tournaments.
This issue matters not only to chess players but also to fans and the broader sports community, as it raises questions about fairness, accountability, and the role of public discourse in competitive sports. The stakes are high for maintaining trust in the sport's integrity, particularly as online cheating allegations have become more common in recent years. Gukesh's stance reflects a growing call for unity and caution in addressing such claims, emphasizing the importance of evidence-based discussions over unfounded accusations.
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Originally published on Times of India on 2/24/2026