ITTF concluded a comprehensive site inspection visit in London last week, marking a pivotal milestone in preparations for the ITTF World Team Table Tennis Championships Finals 2026. The Championships will run from April 28 to May 10, 2026, with group stages taking place April 28 to May 1 and the main draw from May 2 to May 10. Table Tennis England CEO Sally Lockyer, Chair Clare Breigal, and Sandra Deaton were joined by Jonny Cowan (WTT Europe General Manager), Georgia Bekyra (Ticketing Manager), Bart Vermoesen (ITTF Event Director), Mohamed Eldawlaty (ITTF Head of Events) and Event Director John Timms of MLS for the inspection visit.
A century after the very first ITTF World Championships were held in London, table tennis will return to the city where it all began for a historic celebration of the sport. The Championships will showcase world-class competition across two premier venues: the Copper Box Arena in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park hosting group stages, and the iconic OVO Arena Wembley for the main draw knockout rounds.
The team conducted comprehensive evaluations covering technical operations, venue configurations, and sport presentation concepts. Detailed venue assessments examined field-of-play configurations, practice facilities, and spectator infrastructure. Particular attention was paid to lighting requirements, broadcast infrastructure, and athlete presentation capabilities, ensuring both venues meet international championship standards.
Departmental meetings between ITTF and organizing committee teams addressed key operational aspects, from event logistics to media strategy and accommodation partnerships. The discussions emphasized the championship’s historic significance and the unique opportunity to showcase table tennis at its birthplace, with plans for the “Road to the Worlds” series providing behind-the-scenes coverage leading up to the landmark event.
The site visit concluded with both organizations establishing clear deadlines for venue documentation and technical specifications. This collaborative approach reflects the shared commitment to delivering a world-class event that will further elevate table tennis in its country of origin.
The ITTF World Championships Finals 2026 will mark a significant celebration in table tennis history. The return to London represents not just a homecoming, but a celebration of a century of table tennis evolution, growth, and the pursuit of excellence that has brought us to this magnificent point in the sport’s history. With preparations now entering their next phase, London is positioned to host a landmark championship that will showcase the evolution of table tennis at the highest level.