Russian chess official reportedly d!es of malaria after mosquito bite in Nigeria

Sergei Indeikin, an operations manager at the International Chess Federation, has reportedly died of malaria at age 36.

Russian media reported that Indeykin d!ed of malaria, which he may have contracted after being bitten by an infected mosquito during a business trip to Nigeria.

After leaving Africa, Indeykin traveled to Uzbekistan for work, where symptoms of the illness reportedly began to appear.

His condition worsened after he returned to Russia. He was taken by ambulance to a hospital in Perm, but doctors were unable to save him.

Indeykin had worked at FIDE events since 2021 and was involved in organizing major international chess tournaments.

FIDE announced his d3ath on social media on Sunday, April 22, 2026, describing it as the result of a sudden illness.

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of our colleague Sergei Indeikin, FIDE Operational Manager, following a sudden illness,” the statement read.

“Sergei started working at FIDE events in 2021 and quickly became an integral part of our operations at major international events. 

“Over the past five years, he worked behind the scenes at World Championships, World Cups, World Rapid and Blitz, Candidates Tournaments, as well as many events organised by the FIDE Events Commission, including championships for seniors, juniors and amateurs.

“He travelled across the world to make sure these events ran professionally, efficiently and in accordance with FIDE standards.

“Much of this work is rarely visible to the public, but everyone who worked with Sergei knew how much responsibility, energy and care he put into every event.

“Beyond his work, Sergei was also a generous person. 

“He supported an orphanage and, wherever his work took him, he would bring back chess memorabilia and small gifts for the children from different parts of the world.

“We will remember Sergei as a true professional, a reliable colleague and a kind person who contributed enormously to the work of FIDE.

“Our deepest condolences go to Sergei’s wife, his young daughter, his family, friends and everyone who had the privilege of working with him. He will be greatly missed.”