Khanty-Mansiysk, the city of Russia, will host World Women’s Chess Championship 2012 from November 9 to December 3. 64 participants from 33 countries will compete in it. There will be four Georgians too: Nino Khurtsidze (2428), Bela Khotenashvili (2504), Lela Javakhishvili (2455) and Sophiko Khukhashvili (2383).

It is known that in the first round Khotenashvili will play against Maritza Arribas Robaina of Cuba (2273), Khukhashvili – against Elina Danielian of Armenia (2476), Javakhishvili – against Anastasia Bodnaruk of Russia (2415) and Khurtsidze – against Yelena Dembo of Greece (2454).

The first round games of knockout system will be held on November 10 and 11. If it is necessary, tie-breaks will be held on November 13. Overall, six rounds will be held and finalists will play four games.

Prize money of World Championship is 450 000 USD. Current champion Yifan Hou (China, 2606) and last year’s finalist Humpy Konery (India, 2610) are the main favorites.