October 18 2024
By Jiwoo Choi
A Romanian chess Grandmaster, Kiril Shevchenko, ranked 69th in the world, was expelled for allegedly using a mobile device during a match, according to CNN reports on October 16. Shevchenko participated in the Spanish Team Championship in Melilla on October 14, where he raised suspicion by frequently leaving his seat.
The controversy escalated when a phone and notes resembling Shevchenko's handwriting were discovered in a restroom. The Spanish Chess Federation issued a statement confirming his expulsion for using a mobile device during the competition, expressing regret over the incident and emphasizing a strong stance against cheating.
Shevchenko's team announced on Facebook that they have terminated their contract with him, condemning unethical practices. However, Shevchenko has denied the cheating allegations. The Romanian Chess Federation stated they adhere to a zero-tolerance policy for violations of fair play but will await concrete evidence before making a final determination. The 22-year-old Grandmaster, originally from Ukraine, has been active in Romania since acquiring his title in 2017.