Chess Grandmaster Kirill Shevchenko Accused of Cheating with Hidden Phone

The 22-year-old, competing for Romania, allegedly used a concealed mobile device during a tournament in Spain, leading to his disqualification.

Kirill Shevchenko, ranked 69th globally, is accused of using a hidden phone in a toilet during the Spanish Team Championship in Melilla.
Shevchenko was disqualified after the phone, set to Romanian time, and a note were found in a toilet stall he frequently visited.
The Romanian Chess Federation demands solid evidence, supporting Shevchenko's denial of the allegations.
His results from the first two rounds of the tournament have been annulled, and the case will be reported to the International Chess Federation (FIDE).
The incident draws parallels with past chess cheating scandals, including the 2022 case involving American GM Hans Niemann.