In chess tournaments, an arbiter is an official who oversees matches and ensures that the rules of chess are followed.

An arbiter (center) overseeing the World Chess Championship 1927 match between Alexander Alekhine (left) and José Raúl Capablanca (right)

International Arbiter

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International Arbiter is a title awarded by FIDE to individuals deemed capable of acting as arbiter in important chess matches. The title was established in 1951.

Requirements for the title to be awarded are detailed in section B.06 of the FIDE Handbook. As well as thorough knowledge of the laws of chess and a proved impartiality, they include the ability to speak a FIDE-approved language and previous experience as an arbiter in important tournaments. International Arbiters are further categorized by FIDE into four groups, in order of experience, from group D, C, B to A. The FIDE World Chess Federation displays the list of International Arbiters with their ID numbers, name, and title on its official website.

Notable International Arbiters

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Some individuals have had careers as strong players and later become International Arbiters. Notable examples include:

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