Romanian chess grandmaster Kirill Shevchenko was expelled from the Spanish Team Championship after being accused of using a mobile device during play, organizers announced. Currently ranked 69th in the world, Shevchenko was representing the Silla - Integrant Col•lectius team when suspicions arose due to his prolonged absences from the board. A mobile device was found in a bathroom, alongside a note with handwriting similar to Shevchenko’s, according to Chess.com.
The Spanish Chess Federation (FEDA) cited the use of mobile devices as the reason for his disqualification, reaffirming its commitment to fighting cheating in chess. Shevchenko's team, Silla - Integrant Col•lectius, terminated its relationship with him, condemning any unsportsmanlike conduct. Meanwhile, the Romanian Chess Federation stated it would wait for solid evidence before making any judgments, expressing support for Shevchenko, who denies the accusations. The case remains under investigation.
