The International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) has announced that it is now accepting bids to host the World Team Table Tennis Championships Finals 2026 and World Youth Championships 2025, two of the most prestigious and highly anticipated tournaments in the sport of table tennis.  

The 2026 edition is set to be a very special one, as it also marks the 100th anniversary milestone of both the ITTF and the competition. As one of the oldest international sports federations, the ITTF has a colourful history that has seen it grow into a global powerhouse of table tennis, with the largest number of member associations amongst all other sports federations. From its establishment in 1926, the ITTF has played a crucial role in promoting the sport, developing new technologies, and organising world-class competitions globally. With its rich heritage, the World Championships’ 100-year milestone is set to be a marquee celebration for players, officials, and fans from around the world altogether. 

The ITTF World Team Table Tennis Championships Finals itself is a marquee event of the table tennis calendar, but the added significance of the 100-year milestone makes it even more special and meaningful. As such, the ITTF is looking for a host that will help make the event a truly special one. It is seeking a city and venue that can provide a unique and memorable experience for players and fans alike, showcasing the rich history and culture of table tennis while also celebrating a century of table tennis.  

The bidding process will be conducted in several phases. In the first phase, interested parties must submit an expression of interest form by 30 April 2023. The final decision on the host city will be made by the ITTF Annual General Meeting set to take place during the ITTF Summit, estimated to be in end August 2023. 

Bidding Timelines  

Phase 1: Interest phase [end March 2023 – 30 April 2023]
Phase 2: Final Bid phase [1 May 2023 – 30 June 2023]
Phase 3: Evaluation of Bids [1 July 2023 – ITTF Summit 2023]
Host Cities Election: ITTF Summit 2023 [estimated end August 2023] 

The ITTF is calling for bids from cities and national associations that can offer world-class venues with state-of-the-art facilities, top-quality accommodation and transport, as well as a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere that will help create an unforgettable celebration of the sport and its history. With these high benchmarks set in place, the chosen host will have a unique opportunity to showcase their city to a global audience and play a key role in the history of the ITTF.  

The ITTF World Team Table Tennis Championships Finals is a biennial event that brings together top players from all over the world, grouped into teams, to compete for the ultimate prize on the biggest table tennis stage. The event is expected to attract a huge global audience, with millions of table tennis fans tuning in to watch the action live or via broadcast.  

Similarly, the World Youth Championships 2025 represents the most prominent World Title Event for players of the next generation, serving as a platform to showcase the sport’s best up-and-rising talents while inspiring future generations of table tennis champions. 

For interested parties, please visit the website www.ittfbids.com for more information about the bidding process and the requirements for hosting both events. Do note that the deadline for submitting an expression of interest document is on 30 April 2023.