Overview
- The Charlotte Chess Center and Naroditsky’s family confirmed his unexpected death on Oct. 20 at age 29, with cause and location undisclosed.
- FIDE president Arkady Dvorkovich said the case has been referred to the federation’s Ethics and Disciplinary Commission, which could consider sanctions.
- Naroditsky was a prominent grandmaster, coach and streamer who served as grandmaster in residence at the Charlotte Chess Center and won the 2025 U.S. National Blitz title with a perfect 14/14.
- Vladimir Kramnik publicly accused him of online cheating in 2024; Naroditsky denied wrongdoing and received support from leading players, including Hikaru Nakamura and Magnus Carlsen as reported.
- Peers and platforms shared tributes, the family requested privacy, and some outlets noted unverified speculation about the circumstances of his death.