The International Chess Federation (FIDE) banned Russian grandmaster Jan Nepomniachtchi from using a thermos with the Norilsk Nickel logo during the Candidates Tournament due to the fact that it is a state-owned company. This was reported by TASS with reference to the press service of the federation. Norilsk Nickel is the personal sponsor of the chess player.

Before tournaments, players usually submit a request for the use of items with logos of personal sponsors. "The request may be denied if the sponsor's activities are contrary to FIDE and IOC policies, local laws, or if the player's sponsor is in conflict with the sponsors of the event," FIDE said. Because of the Russian war in Ukraine, Russian state-owned companies began to fall under this category.

“In most cases, with the exception of those mentioned above, this is allowed, but in return the player is asked to do something for FIDE, such as participating in talent training or holding a simul,” FIDE concluded.

Nepomniachtchi was asked to remove a thermos with the Norilsk Nickel logo from the gaming table during one of the games of the Candidates Tournament taking place in Spain. Its winner will get the right to play with the reigning world champion Norwegian Magnus Carlsen. Now Nepomniachtchi leads the standings.