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The former world champion has spoken out after the tragic passing of US chess star Daniel Naroditsky, calling the 29-year-old's demise as a tragedy while condemning critics for mounting what he termed an "unprecedentedly cynical and illegal campaign of harassment" against him and his loved ones.

Former Champion's Response

The 50-year-old ex-champion, who has faced widespread condemnation for alleging Naroditsky of digital foul play without evidence, expressed condolences but rejected any individual targeting.

"Despite the tensions, I was the sole individual in the chess community who, observing through footage Daniel's obvious health issues a day before his death, publicly called for him to receive help," Kramnik declared. "The ensuing efforts, right after his passing, to directly link this tragic event to my name … violate every limit of fundamental human decency."

Kramnik asserted his earlier requests for examination of Naroditsky's online play had been ignored "even with substantial proof", and claimed he would submit documentation to "appropriate officials". He noted his lawyers were preparing civil and criminal suits over "false accusations" that have led to threats against him and his family.

Police Findings

The death of Naroditsky may have been the consequence of substance overuse and is being investigated as a possible suicide, according to a police report released Thursday. A statement from Charlotte authorities indicates Naroditsky was found dead Sunday evening and classifies the case as a "Investigation into sudden death."

"Last Sunday, October 19 at around 7:11 PM, officers responded to an emergency medical request in the vicinity of Colin Crossing," the report says. "Upon arrival, an unconscious individual was located and later pronounced deceased by a medic."

Community Reaction

Outrage regarding Kramnik's behavior has shaken the chess world. Hikaru Nakamura called his behavior "disgusting", while five-time world champion Carlsen labeled it "horrible". Indian grandmaster Nihal Sarin, who played Naroditsky in his final online match, blamed Kramnik for "causing a death", saying his vigilante campaign against alleged rule-breakers was ineffective and "totally inappropriate".

Naroditsky's Legacy

A Stanford-educated prodigy and former world youth champion, Naroditsky amassed over 800,000 followers on Twitch and YouTube. Referred to as Danya, he was celebrated for his wit, insight and modesty, becoming a prominent figure in chess's COVID-period surge. He was also among the globe's top competitors under rapid formats, finishing ninth at last year's speed chess title event in New York.

Naroditsky repeatedly refuted the allegations but admitted the impact they had taken on his mental health. "Since the Kramnik controversy, I feel like if I start doing well, people suspect foul play," Naroditsky remarked in his final livestream.

Official Responses

The International Chess Federation (Fide) said this week it was "looking into" Kramnik's behavior. "Kramnik's methodology simply can't be accepted," Fide chief executive Emil Sutovsky commented. The organization intends to commemorate Naroditsky with a memorial award.

Fide president Arkady Dvorkovich later verified that all of Kramnik's public statements about Naroditsky, before and after his death, would be submitted to the organisation's Ethics and Disciplinary Commission "to be reviewed independently".

"Life and human worth are fundamental values universally upheld," Dvorkovich emphasized. "The chess community has long respected the achievements of GM Vladimir Kramnik, but such stature brings a duty to uphold the principles of fairness and respect."

Loved Ones' Wish

Naroditsky's family have said they hope he is recalled not because of the hostility he endured but for "the joy and inspiration he provided others every day". Magnus Carlsen called him "a resource to the chess community", while Nakamura described him as "among the finest".

• In the US, you can call or text the Suicide Prevention Hotline on 988, communicate via 988lifeline.org, or text HOME to 741741 to reach a support specialist.
• Throughout Britain and Ireland, Samaritans can be contacted on freephone 116 123, or email [email protected] or [email protected].
• In Australia, the crisis support service Lifeline Australia is 13 11 14.
• Other international helplines can be located through befrienders.org.