Friðrik Ólafsson (1935–2025), Chess Grandmaster passes away at 90

Friðrik Ólafsson, Iceland’s first chess grandmaster and a longtime public servant, passed away on April 4 at the age of 90 in the palliative care unit of the National Hospital.

Born in Reykjavík on January 26, 1935, Ólafsson was the son of Sigríður Ágústa Dorothea Símonsdóttir and Ólafur Friðriksson. He studied law at the Icelandic Academy of Law and the University of Iceland, ultimately serving in key roles within the Icelandic government, including as secretary of the Alþingi from 1984 to 2005.

In the world of chess, Ólafsson was a towering figure. He became Icelandic Chess Champion six times, starting in 1952, and earned the title of International Grandmaster in 1958, becoming the first Icelander to do so. His victories in international tournaments spanned decades and continents, including memorable wins in Hastings, Wijk aan Zee, and Reykjavík.

He served as President of the International Chess Federation (FIDE) from 1978 to 1982 and led efforts to promote chess education in Iceland. His contributions helped lay the foundation for Iceland’s deep-rooted chess culture. Ólafsson also authored several chess books and was instrumental in the establishment of the Icelandic Chess School.

In recognition of his contributions, Ólafsson was awarded both the Knight’s Cross (1972) and Grand Knight’s Cross (1980) of the Icelandic Order of the Falcon. In 2015, he was named an Honorary Citizen of Reykjavík and a Grand Honorary Member of FIDE.

He is survived by his wife Auður Júlíusdóttir, their daughters, five grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.

Friðrik Ólafsson’s legacy will endure—at the chessboard, in public service, and in the hearts of the Icelandic people.