Copyright timesnownews
Vladimir Kramnik, the Russian Grandmaster, is in the middle of a massive controversy following the untimely death of Daniel Naroditsky. The 29-year-old's sudden loss of life led to widespread criticism of Kramnik, who was accused of causing severe emotional distress to the American Grandmaster, since publicly alleging in 2024 that Naroditsky had cheated (using a chess engine) during online games. While Naroditsky had categorically rejected the accusations, he did go on to describe Kramnik as "worse than dirt," and also admitted that the entire episode had affected him mentally. But on Wednesday, the 50-year-old Russian veteran defended his stance on what he described as a long-running anti-cheating campaign and revealed that he had been subjected to online threats and smear campaigns since speaking out against what he called "the dark side" of modern chess. Following Naroditsky's death, Kramnik responded to those blaming him, posting a long statement on X defending his actions and calling for a full investigation. "Once I started to reveal in public information about the 'dark side' of modern chess, I became a subject of the dirtiest possible orchestrated PR campaign, including several documented murder threats, in addition to continues defamation. I have collected extensive material," he wrote. Calling on independent media or police to review it the proof he also said, "That would be of interest of police and or any major media resources. Watching now the intensity and violence of the new wave of orchestrated PR attack, the intentions of 'conductors' are clear. Therefore, at least for the security, I offer any major media to share my findings." Urging authorities to examine the circumstances surrounding Naroditsky's death, Kramnik said, "Without a doubt, this recent tradegy should be investigated by police, there are too many huge financial interests involved to be sure about it being just an incident. I am ready to provide all information required." Stating that he had been repeatedly warned to stop probing chess-related corruption, the Russian GM added that he refused to back down. "Because I myself more than once in private communications with people directly involved received 'friendly' advise to skip digging into it to 'preserve my health'. Not my style, gentlemen :)," he concluded.
