Delhi to host BWF World Championships from August 17
New Delhi is set to host the BWF World Championships 2026 from August 17 to August 23 at the Indira Gandhi Indoor Stadium. The event will bring together leading players for one of badminton’s major global competitions.
The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) views the championships as a significant step in India’s role as a host for major international sporting events. The Badminton Association of India, in collaboration with the Badminton World Federation, the Government of India, the Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi, and other stakeholders, is staging the tournament.
India’s Sporting Ambitions and Athlete Development
The week-long event is seen as more than just a competition for medals. The IOA stated that hosting a championship of this magnitude is expected to offer international exposure to Indian athletes, coaches, technical officials, administrators, and volunteers. This initiative also aims to strengthen the country’s capacity to deliver major sporting competitions.
India is working to expand its presence as a destination for continental and world championships across various sports. The IOA highlighted that ongoing investment in sports infrastructure, athlete development, high-performance programmes, and international event hosting has helped enhance India’s standing on the global sporting stage.
Dr. P. T. Usha, President of the Indian Olympic Association, commented that the championships represent an important milestone in India’s sporting journey. She added that it would reinforce the country’s dedication to the Olympic Movement and the development of sport.
Usha also noted that every major international event hosted in India creates a lasting legacy. Such events provide opportunities for athletes, coaches, technical officials, and sports administrators to learn from global competitors and build expertise.
Home Challenge and Player Preparations
The home challenge is expected to add an additional layer of interest, with two-time Olympic medallist and former World Champion P. V. Sindhu leading India’s hopes. The host nation will be looking for its players to benefit from home support as top badminton talent arrives in the capital.
Sindhu expressed that winning a medal, particularly gold, in front of a home crowd in Delhi would be very special. She mentioned that all her previous medals were won abroad and that the feeling of standing on the podium with gold at home would be unique.
Sindhu also shared that her dedication, hard work, resilience, and self-belief have been crucial to her success. She emphasised the importance of not giving up and maintaining consistency.
Preparations for the championship have been thorough, with two weeks dedicated to focusing on strategy. Sindhu highlighted the importance of her team, including her strength and conditioning coach, physio, and Indonesian coach Irwansyah.
She noted that the game has evolved from being primarily attacking and fast to requiring preparation for longer matches with extended rallies. Sindhu stated that adapting to these changes is key to continued success.
Despite knowing the likely opponents, Sindhu mentioned that there are no clear-cut favourites in a World Championship due to the intense preparations undertaken by every top player. She stressed that success requires 100 percent mental and physical presence, with no shortcuts.
Sindhu confirmed that she will not be trying anything new in her game, focusing instead on giving her best. She acknowledged the expectations and pressure but stated her experience helps her to manage them and concentrate on each match individually. The confidence from her recent Japan Open win has returned, she added.
The IOA also believes the championships will inspire young Indians to engage in sports and provide opportunities for the next generation of sporting talent to experience an international competition at home. Organisers have been working to deliver a world-class event for all participants.
The BWF World Championships will commence on August 17.
Source: telanganatoday.com
Priya Menon 