Online chess tournaments banned in Afghanistan; restrictions widened

Kabul Times News | 2026-05-15

Officials of the Afghan Chess Federation say that after banning chess and closing the federation and clubs in this field, the Kabul administration has now banned online chess tournaments.

Abdul Khaliq Wais, deputy head of the Afghan Chess Federation, said that after the closure of in-person centers, a number of clubs were holding online competitions to keep this intellectual sport alive. According to him, chess players from inside and outside Afghanistan participated in these tournaments and showcased their abilities.

He emphasized that chess is an intellectual and mental sport and is not considered a threat to society. He also added that in his view, banning chess has no explicit basis in the Holy Quran or authentic Islamic hadiths.

About a year ago, chess was banned in Afghanistan, and the federation and clubs associated with the sport were suspended. After that, some chess activities moved online, but now these competitions are also facing new restrictions and bans.