Jan Henric Buettner

Candidate for President of FIDE

[Jan Henric Buettner @JanHBuettner]

The 203 national chess federations are not clients of FIDE.

They are its owners.

Owners should share in the success they help create.

That is why Malcolm Pein and I are making a clear written commitment:

20% of all FIDE revenue (excluding prize funds) will be distributed annually to FIDE's member federations.

This is about replacing dependency with partnership.

Instead of waiting every four years for election promises or limited development grants, every federation should benefit directly from the growth of world chess.

Based on conservative projections, this means approximately €15,000–€30,000 per federation every year, in addition to existing development programs, education initiatives and travel support.

This is not built on promises alone.

Throughout my career, I have built businesses, attracted international investors and sponsors, and most recently helped raise US$27.5 million for Freestyle Chess.

I believe FIDE can grow—and when it does, every federation should grow with it.

No more handouts.
No more dependence.
Real partnership.
Real ownership.
Shared success.

Learn more about our vision:
🌐 https://t.co/8s6iXVPFD6

[Jan Henric Buettner @JanHBuettner]

Statement on the Attack on the Kherson Chess Club

I am deeply saddened by the news that the chess club in Kherson was struck in yesterday's attack.

Chess clubs are places where children and adults come together in peace—to learn, to think, to compete with respect, and to build friendships across generations. They are symbols of education, community, and hope. Seeing such a place damaged by war is heartbreaking.

No chess player, no child, and no civilian should have to fear for their safety simply because they gathered around a chessboard. Attacks that harm civilians and destroy places dedicated to learning, culture, and community deserve our unequivocal condemnation.

My thoughts are with everyone affected, especially the members of the Kherson chess community who have lost a place that meant so much to them. I hope that the club can one day be rebuilt and once again become a place where people meet in peace.

Chess teaches us that even the fiercest contests are governed by rules and respect. War reminds us of the terrible consequences when those principles are abandoned.