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Recent reports have surfaced concerning the financial support provided to prominent Kazakhstani chess player Bibisara Assaubayeva. Her mother, Liana Tanzharikova, claimed that Timur Turlov ceased funding the young athlete three years ago. However, the Kazakhstan Chess Federation has issued a formal statement to clarify the situation.

Claims of Funding Withdrawal

According to Liana Tanzharikova, Timur Turlov reportedly decided to stop funding Bibisara Assaubayeva approximately three years ago. She recounted a private meeting in London where Turlov allegedly stated, "Sara, you need to understand one thing: I am not a billionaire, all the money belongs to the company, so I am refusing you."

Despite this alleged refusal, Assaubayeva continued to be part of the national team. Subsequently, discussions arose on social media regarding the amount of funding allocated to the athlete, with some reports suggesting it exceeded $800,000.

Federation's Official Response

The Kazakhstan Chess Federation has refuted the reported figures, stating that Bibisara Assaubayeva does not receive a salary but rather performance-based bonuses. The federation's annual budget is substantial, reportedly around $10 million (over 5 billion tenge).

Clarifying the figures mentioned by Tanzharikova, the federation explained that the sum of 388 million tenge allocated for four years (after taxes) is approximately 278 million tenge. A portion of this amount is designated for coaching fees, not as a direct salary to the athlete.

Assaubayeva Receives Top Support

The federation emphasized that Bibisara Assaubayeva is the most supported athlete among the national team members. Between 2023 and 2026, she is allocated approximately 388 million tenge, which includes grants and prize money for achievements.

"Chess in Kazakhstan is a large national system involving tens of thousands of children, parents, coaches, educators, and professional athletes. As of the end of 2023, Kazakhstani chess players have won 162 medals, including 64 gold medals," the federation stated. They reiterated that Assaubayeva receives the most financial backing, with the 388 million tenge for 2023-2026 covering grants and bonuses.

The primary sponsor of the federation is Freedom Holding Corp. Funds are directed not only to athletes but also to tournaments, national team preparation, coaches, and the overall development of chess in the country. Assaubayeva also receives additional support through bonuses for her victories and from other sources like the Sport Qory fund.

This information comes from the Infohub.kz news agency.