Exclusive | Russia, once chess’s home, now home-breaker: ‘We can’t play’

Once the heart of global chess, Russia’s dominance is fading amid geopolitical turmoil and FIDE sanctions. Belarus No. 1 Denis Lazavik reveals the struggles of young players: limited team opportunities, the temptation to switch federations, and the financial and logistical hurdles of competing internationally. Despite these challenges, Lazavik remains focused on climbing the rating ladder and chasing his World Championship dreams.