The International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) has officially opened the bidding process for three prestigious global tournaments: the 2027 and 2029 World Table Tennis Championships Finals, and the 2028 World Team Table Tennis Championships Finals. These events represent some of the sport’s most significant international competitions, providing a fantastic opportunity for cities to not only showcase their passion for table tennis but also elevate their profiles on a global scale.
Both tournaments will bring together the sport's top athletes, with the individual World Championships featuring 128 of the best male and female competitors in singles, alongside 64 doubles pairings, all battling it out in an intense knockout format. Meanwhile, the World Team Championships will host 64 teams, with national pride on the line as they fight for the top team honors. This revamped format promises excitement and unforgettable moments for players and fans alike.
A Global Call for Bids
ITTF President Petra Sörling emphasized the potential for hosting cities to leave a lasting legacy in the sport.
We encourage all our Member Associations to seize this unique chance to host the ITTF World Championships. It’s not only about organizing a competition but also creating a lasting impact on the sport and inspiring future generations," she said.
The ITTF is looking for cities that can deliver an excellent infrastructure, including world-class venues, premium accommodation, and top-tier transportation options. These events demand not just great facilities but also a vibrant atmosphere, ensuring both players and spectators experience something truly special.
Timeline for Bidding Process
Cities interested in bidding are encouraged to act swiftly. The bidding process is divided into multiple phases:
Expression of Interest: From 16 September 2024 to 30 November 2024
Site Visits & Dialogues: From 1 January 2025 to 28 February 2025
Finalizing Bids: 1 March to 31 March 2025
Bid Evaluations: Throughout April 2025
Election of Host Cities: On 27 May 2025
Previous Hosts and Future Plans
Recent ITTF-hosted events have demonstrated the Federation’s desire to broaden the sport’s reach. Houston, USA became the first city in the Americas to host the championships in 2021, and Chengdu, China staged a successful edition in 2022 amidst considerable challenges. Durban, South Africa, made history as the first African city to host in 2023. Following these milestones, the 2025 World Championships Finals will take place in Doha, Qatar, while the centennial 2026 World Team Championships will be hosted in London, marking a historic moment in table tennis.
Steve Dainton, CEO of the ITTF Group, expressed his excitement about the upcoming editions:
As we move into a new century for the ITTF World Championships, we are eager to see new cities take up the challenge of hosting, helping to grow the sport’s rich history and bring it to new audiences worldwide.
Future of Table Tennis
By hosting these tournaments, cities have the opportunity to stage a global celebration of table tennis, showcasing their regions to millions of fans across the globe. With extensive marketing and promotion opportunities, hosts can create unforgettable experiences that enhance the sport’s global reach while fostering a deeper connection with the table tennis community.
Interested cities are encouraged to visit the ITTF's website https://www.ittfbids.com/ to learn more about the bidding process, and submit their Expression of Interest before the deadline of 30 November 2024.
Source: ITTF