"Hopefully, the example of Karjakin will ensure that more people would attend the chess schools. And, perhaps, there will be future contenders for a chess crown and chess champions in Russia," noted the head of FIDE.
Ilyumzhinov is confident that Karjakin will have a chance to take revenge in two years. Recall that the Russian was defeated by Norwegian Magnus Carlsen at a tiebreaker at the Chess Championship match.
FIDE President Kirsan Ilyumzhinov commented on the excitement for chess in Russia in connection with the intense fight of Karjakin for the world title.
"Karjakin is the flesh and blood of the Russian chess school. He became the youngest GM in the world at the age of 12, and thus set an example to young fans of chess. He is an idol for many chess fans now," said Ilyumzhinov.