Russian Chess Official Dies from Suspected Malaria in Nigeria

Sergei Indeikin, aged 36, an operational manager and delegate of the International Chess Federation (FIDE), died on August 23, 2023, after falling critically ill following a work trip to Nigeria. He attended the FIDE World Amateur Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships from August 1 to 8.

His mother, Tatiana, stated that he contracted a severe form of malaria during the visit, with his health deteriorating sharply within two weeks. After leaving Nigeria, he traveled to Uzbekistan, where he first felt unwell, before returning to Moscow and then to Perm to stay with his mother.

His father, Alexander, confirmed that FIDE colleagues noted symptoms consistent with malaria. Despite having received a vaccine prior to the trip, it is believed he was bitten by an infected mosquito during the tournament.

FIDE described Indeikin as a key member of its operations team, involved in major competitions since 2021. He is survived by his wife and daughter.

The Nigeria Chess Federation had not commented at the time of reporting.