Russian chess official dies after reported malaria infection following Nigeria trip
Russian chess official Sergei Indeikin, 36, has died after developing a severe illness reportedly linked to malaria following a work trip to Nigeria.
Indeikin, an operations manager and delegate for the International Chess Federation (FIDE), travelled to Abuja in August to help organise the FIDE World Amateur Rapid and Blitz Championships, held from August 1 to 8.
According to Russian media reports citing his family, Indeikin began feeling unwell after leaving Nigeria for Uzbekistan. His condition later deteriorated after he returned to Russia, where he was hospitalised in his hometown of Perm but could not be saved.
His father, Alexander Indeikin, said the family believed he contracted malaria through an infected mosquito bite in Nigeria. His mother also described the illness as rapidly progressing and extremely severe.
However, FIDE has not officially confirmed malaria as the cause of death. The federation announced his death on August 23, describing it as a sudden illness.
Indeikin had worked at FIDE events since 2021 and was involved in organising major international competitions, including World Championship matches, the World Cup, Candidates Tournaments and World Rapid and Blitz Championships.
His death has also drawn attention to the continuing health risks associated with malaria, one of the major infectious diseases affecting Nigeria, particularly for international visitors who may have limited immunity to the disease.
Indeikin is survived by his wife and daughter.
