🔗 Share this article Former world champion Kramnik Rejects Misconduct in Passing of US Chess Star Daniel Naroditsky The former world champion has broken his silence after the tragic passing of US chess star Daniel Naroditsky, calling the 29-year-old's loss as a tragedy while accusing critics for launching what he termed an "unprecedentedly cynical and unlawful campaign of harassment" against him and his family. Kramnik's Statement The 50-year-old former world champion, who has faced widespread condemnation for alleging Naroditsky of online cheating without evidence, expressed condolences but rejected any personal attacks. "Regardless of our differences, I was the sole individual in the chess community who, noticing on video Daniel's apparent health concerns 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 sorrowful incident to my name … cross all boundaries of fundamental human decency." Kramnik said his earlier calls for a review of Naroditsky's digital games had been ignored "despite a significant amount of evidence", and stated he would provide material to "appropriate officials". He mentioned his lawyers were preparing legal actions over "false accusations" that have resulted in dangers against him and his family. Police Findings The demise of the grandmaster may have been the result of a drug overdose and is being investigated as a possible suicide, based on a law enforcement document issued last Thursday. A report from the Charlotte-Mecklenburg police department indicates Naroditsky was found dead Sunday evening and describes the case as a "Death/suicide/overdose/Sudden/Natural Death Investigation." "On Sunday October 19th at approximately 07:11pm, officers responded to an assist medic call in the area of 9000 Colin Crossing," the document states. "Upon arrival, an unresponsive subject was located and later pronounced deceased by a medical professional." Community Reaction Anger over Kramnik's conduct has shaken the chess world. Hikaru Nakamura described his actions "disgusting", while reigning champion Carlsen described it as "horrible". Indian grandmaster Sarin, who faced Naroditsky in his last digital game, blamed Kramnik for "taking a life", saying his self-appointed pursuit against alleged rule-breakers was fruitless and "totally inappropriate". Naroditsky's Legacy A Stanford-educated prodigy and ex-youth titleholder, Naroditsky amassed over 800,000 followers on Twitch and YouTube. Referred to as Danya, he was celebrated for his humor, clarity and humility, becoming a prominent figure in chess's pandemic-era boom. He was also one of the world's finest players under shorter time controls, placing ninth at last year's blitz world championship in New York. Naroditsky consistently denied the allegations but acknowledged the toll they had taken on his psychological well-being. "Since the Kramnik controversy, I feel like if I start doing well, people suspect foul play," Naroditsky said in his final livestream. Official Responses The World Chess Federation said this week it was "investigating" Kramnik's behavior. "The way Kramnik approaches it simply is unacceptable," Fide chief executive Sutovsky stated. The federation plans to honor Naroditsky with a tribute prize. Federation president Dvorkovich later verified that all of Kramnik's official remarks about Naroditsky, prior to and following his passing, would be referred to the organisation's Ethics and Disciplinary Commission "to be reviewed independently". "Human life and dignity are core principles shared by all of us," Dvorkovich emphasized. "The chess community has always valued the achievements of GM Vladimir Kramnik, but such status brings a duty to maintain the standards of equity and consideration." Family's Hope Naroditsky's family have expressed they wish he is recalled not because of the confrontation he faced but for "the happiness and motivation he provided others every day". Magnus Carlsen described him "a resource to the chess community", while Hikaru Nakamura referred to him as "among the finest". In the US, you can call or text the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline on 988, chat on 988lifeline.org, or text HOME to 741741 to connect with a support specialist. In the UK and Ireland, The Samaritans can be reached at 116 123, or email [email protected] or [email protected]. Across Australia, the emergency help line Lifeline Australia is 13 11 14. Other international helplines can be found at befrienders.org.