The International Women’s Chess Championship tournament has started in Samarkand, featuring a total prize fund of $50,000.

The tournament brings together 150 strong female chess players from 13 countries.

During the opening ceremony, Deputy Chairman of the Uzbekistan Chess Federation Komil Sindorov and representatives of the Samarkand regional administration highlighted that the competition serves as preparation for the 46th World Chess Olympiad, which Uzbekistan will host in 2026. Additionally, they emphasized that this event provides an excellent opportunity for players to improve their skills and exchange experiences.

The leading contenders for victory are highly rated Uzbekistan chess players Umida Omonova, Barchinoy Shokirjonova, Afruza Khamdamova, Marjona Malikova, and Nodira Nodirjonova.

The tournament will consist of nine rounds. Each participant will have 90 minutes of initial playing time, with an additional 30 seconds added per move starting from the first move. Players cannot agree to a draw before completing 30 moves.

The championship will continue until March 19.

G. Khasanov, photos by A. Isroilov, UzA