C’est avec grande tristesse que nous apprenons aujourd’hui la mort prématurée de M. Jorgen Magnusson, président de l’IBCA, décédé à 59 ans après un long combat contre le cancer.
Né en Suède en 1967, Jorgen Magnusson était depuis octobre 2023 président de l’IBCA, dont il coordonnait aussi la Commission sur les technologies.
Sa carrière d’historien des religions ne l’a pas empêché de consacrer une grande partie de sa vie à sa passion pour le jeu d’échecs. En plus d’avoir été quatre fois champion du monde junior des non et malvoyants de 1985 à 1988, il était maître FIDE (FM) et coach d’échecs, avec un souci particulier pour l’inclusion et l’ accessibilité pour tous.
Son nom figure parmi les « top chess players » cités sur chess.com, où vous trouverez
Son profil ainsi que plusieurs de ses parties
Nos condoléances à sa famille, à ses amis et, bien sûr, à toute la communauté IBCA.
Official Statement of the International Braille Chess Association (IBCA)
Dear IBCA Members,
It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of our President, Dr. Jorgen Magnusson, who left us after a long and courageous battle with cancer.
Dr. Magnusson was not only a devoted leader of the International Braille Chess Association, but also a man of vision, integrity, and deep commitment to the global chess community-especially to players who are blind and visually impaired. His tireless efforts significantly advanced the mission of IBCA and strengthened its presence around the world.
Under his leadership, our organization grew not only in structure, but in spirit. He believed in unity, inclusion, and the transformative power of chess. His legacy will remain with us in every initiative we continue and every player we support.
In his final wishes, he expressed his hope that the work of IBCA would continue with determination and shared purpose. We honor him by carrying forward that mission-with the same dedication, respect, and passion that he embodied.
On behalf of the IBCA, we extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be greatly missed.
May he rest in peace.
Piotr Dukaczewski Vice President International Braille Chess Association
(IBCA)