Russian chess official Sergei Indeikin has died at the age of 36 after reportedly developing a severe form of malaria following a work trip to Nigeria.
Indeikin was an operational manager and delegate of the International Chess Federation (FIDE). He travelled to Abuja in August to work at the FIDE World Amateur Rapid and Blitz Chess Championships, held from August 1 to 8. FIDE’s coverage of the tournament listed him among the officials involved in the event.
After leaving Nigeria, Indeikin travelled to Uzbekistan, where he reportedly began feeling unwell. His condition later deteriorated after he returned to Russia, and he was taken to a hospital in his hometown of Perm.
According to Russian media reports citing his parents, Indeikin was believed to have contracted severe malaria during his time in Nigeria. His mother, Tatiana, described the illness as extremely rapid and severe. His father also said information from his son’s colleagues suggested malaria may have been responsible for his condition.
Other Russian reports claimed that Indeikin may have been bitten by an infected mosquito while attending the tournament in Abuja. However, this has not been independently established.
FIDE announced Indeikin’s death on August 23, describing it as the result of a “sudden illness” but did not publicly identify malaria as the cause of death. The federation praised him as a dedicated member of its operations team who had contributed to the organisation of major international chess competitions since joining FIDE events in 2021.
Indeikin was involved in organising several major chess events, including World Championship matches, World Cups, Candidates tournaments and World Rapid and Blitz Championships.
Beyond his professional responsibilities, FIDE described him as a kind and reliable colleague who also supported an orphanage and often brought chess-related souvenirs and gifts to children from his international travels. He is survived by his wife and daughter.
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