Israelite players enrolled in a chess tournament in the Basque country were informed that they could not compete under the flag of their country, being forced to play under the neutral flag of the International Chess Federation.
The ban on displaying the Israel flag in a chess tournament in Spain brought to the memory of EREZ KUZVASER October 7th and the sister’s memory, Shani, from Hamas when he watched the new music festival.
“I thought about how my sister Shani was killed only for being Israelite. And in how the world treats us now, after so much suffering. I immediately remembered her. It was hard, a painful feeling. I was deeply sad and angry with the organizers, ”said the chess master Fide upon learning of the decision.
On Friday, Israeli players participating in the 40th edition of the International Tournament were informed by the organization that could not compete under the flag of Israelhaving to participate with the flag of the International Chess Federation, FIDE.
According to the organizers of the tournament who refused would be disqualified and expelled from the race, which takes place between September 12 and 18, says the.
After Pressure of the Israeli Federation of Chess and intense negotiations with high fide responsible, the international organism that regulates the sport ended force the organizers to allow the flag of Israel with the country’s players during the tournament.
“FIDE did not have any prior knowledge of this decisiondid not take any deliberation in this regard, It was not even consulted by organizers, ”the federation said in an official statement.
The note also adds that “the fide vehemently condemns any form of discrimination, including based on nationality and on the flag. The same rules apply to Israel and its playerssuch as all other member federations that are not under sanctions. ”
“We sent a formal request for clarification detailed to the organizers and we will take all the necessary measures to ensure that our rules and principles are respected at all events. ”
The fide stresses that this decision Sends an important message to the international community and recalls that the chess, as an ancient and noble game, must remain above political disputes.
The Israeli Chess Federation appeals to all parties to keep the sports spirit, justice and unity from the world chess community.
“It’s frustrating. I’ve played in many tournaments abroad and I’ve never been discriminated against. Here, In this specific place of Spain, they made a poor decision. I’m pleased to have been resolved, ”said Kupervaser.
