Alarm over the critical situation of former Cuban chess champion Jesús Nogueiras: "It is very hard and very sad."

The current situation of Cuban chess ex-champion Jesús Nogueiras, one of the most prominent grandmasters in the history of this sport on the island, has raised concern and calls for help within the chess community, both in Cuba and abroad.

According to reported by sports journalist Yasel Porto, the former athlete is going through a critical personal and mental health situation , which has raised alarm among colleagues and fans.

Porto noted that after publishing about Nogueiras, he received multiple messages confirming the deterioration of his condition, especially in the mental aspect.

Even chess figures like Lázaro Bruzón shared concerning information with him about the situation.

The journalist revealed that he received recent photos of the former champion but decided not to publish them out of respect and to avoid damaging his image, although he stated that they depict a "shocking and alarming" condition.

Some chess players and friends have tried to help the resident of Villa Clara, although Porto lamented that at the institutional level, others have hidden behind his mental condition or have turned a blind eye.

"It is very hard and incredibly sad to see what Nogueiras is today, like other athletes who are currently in very poor condition," he denounced.

The publication, aimed mainly at the international chess community, seeks to raise awareness of the case and generate solidarity with one of the sporting glories of Cuba.

Months ago, on Alex Cuba's Facebook profile, the activist had also made a call to help the former athlete.

In his post, he warned: "The Maestro Nogueiras is facing significant financial difficulties. The transition after a life dedicated to high performance is not always easy, and the current realities can be particularly harsh."

According to what was expressed in July, they were organizing a collection to provide direct financial support to the teacher. The contribution could include any type of donation: "No matter how small it may seem, it will be received with immense gratitude and will make a real difference. They will be delivered by people close to the teacher in Santa Clara."

Nogueiras, remembered as one of the great chess players of the island, made a significant impact on Cuban chess and was part of the sports elite in the 80s and 90s. Today, however, he faces a harsh and heartbreaking reality that, according to Porto, places him “a mere step away from checkmate” if effective measures to support him are not found.

Born on July 17, 1959, in Santa Clara, he was a five-time winner of the Cuban Chess Championship (1977, 1978, 1984, 1991, and 2000), and participated in 14 Olympiads between 1980 and 2004.

After leaving the main team, he devoted himself to playing in smaller tournaments, participating in simultaneous competitions, and training new generations at the provincial and national levels.

The abandonment of athletes has generated growing outrage in Cuban public opinion.

Social media has become a platform for citizens to express their discontent by sharing stories of athletes living in precarious conditions. These allegations have called into question the official narrative of support for sports achievements.

Frequently asked questions about the situation of former Cuban chess champion Jesús Nogueiras