PETALING JAYA: Egypt will host this year’s World Junior Championships from Oct 5-10.
The decision came after Indonesia, who were originally scheduled to host the tournament, relinquished the hosting rights in January.
The Egypt Badminton Federation (EBF) had submitted what was described as a considered, professional and robust hosting proposal.
The EBF also received backing from the government and local authorities to ensure the tournament runs smoothly while guaranteeing the safety of all players and officials throughout the competition.
The issue of security has drawn attention as parts of the Middle East continue to face conflict and instability.
“Hosting the BWF World Junior Championships 2026 is a testament to our nation’s world-class infrastructure and reflects our unwavering commitment to excellence within the international arenas,” said Egypt’s Youth and Sports Minister Gohar Nabil.
“The Egyptian Government fully supports this event, allocating all necessary resources to guarantee a remarkable experience for athletes, delegations and fans from all over the world. This is not just a championship. It is a strategic milestone that will solidify our country’s position as a premier destination for major international events.”
The Cairo International Stadium has been selected as the venue for the tournament.
For this edition, the Badminton World Federation (BWF) will be using the 15x3 relay scoring system for the mixed team event.
Egypt’s selection as host is seen as significant as it marks the first time in 24 years that Africa will stage the World Junior Championships since South Africa hosted the 2002 edition.
Adding to the significance, the tournament will also take place in the same year as another major sporting event in Africa, the Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal.
“Taking place in the same year as the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games, this championship strengthens momentum for the sport across Africa and will help inspire and develop the next generation of players on the continent.
“BWF will continue to drive badminton forward in every dimension, with a firm commitment to elevating badminton as a truly global sport and a sport of choice that is accessible to people everywhere, across all communities, genders, ages and abilities,” said BWF president Patama Leeswadtrakul in a statement.
