Will the ITTF World Team Championships 2026 Feature 64 Teams Per Gender?
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Synopsis
The 2026 World Team Table Tennis Championships is set to break records with 64 teams competing in both men's and women's events in London. This landmark event not only celebrates a century of the sport but promises thrilling matches across iconic venues.
Key Takeaways
- The 2026 Championships will feature 64 teams in each gender.
- Matches will take place in two iconic London venues.
- The tournament format includes a round-robin stage followed by knockout rounds.
- This event celebrates a century of table tennis competition.
- Final matches for both genders are scheduled in May.
Lausanne, Aug 5 (NationPress) The 2026 World Team Table Tennis Championships Finals in London will showcase 64 teams each for the men’s and women’s competitions, marking a substantial increase from the previous 40-team format used in recent tournaments, as stated by the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF).
This expanded structure commemorates the 100th anniversary of both the inaugural table tennis world championships, which took place in London in 1926, and the establishment of the ITTF in the same year. The very first World Table Tennis Championships were also hosted in London back in 1926.
According to the timetable, the Copper Box Arena will be the venue for the initial rounds from April 28 to May 1, 2026. Following this, the competition will shift to Wembley Arena from May 2 to May 10.
The 64 teams for each gender are divided into 16 groups consisting of four teams each. Every group will participate in a complete round-robin format, resulting in three matches per team.
A notable innovation is the staging arrangement. Stage 1a will host the elite eight teams (the top seven ranked nations plus the host team) in just two groups. These matches will determine the seedings for the main draw, allowing all eight teams to progress automatically.
Stage 1b will consist of the remaining 56 teams across 14 groups, where only the strongest teams will advance. All 14 group winners will proceed directly, in addition to six of the best second-placed teams based on their match records.
The last eight second-placed teams will enter a preliminary knockout round, consisting of four matches, with only the winners moving on to finalize the 32-team main draw.
The tournament will take place across two esteemed venues in London. The Copper Box Arena will host the opening rounds from April 28 to May 1, before the action transitions to Wembley Arena from May 2-10, where the world’s elite teams will compete for the coveted title.
The Women’s Team final is scheduled for May 9, followed by the Men’s Team final on May 10.
Point of View
I believe the expansion to 64 teams reflects the growing popularity of table tennis globally. This move not only elevates the competition but also encourages more nations to participate, fostering a spirit of unity through sports. The upcoming championships in London will undoubtedly be a historic event for players and fans alike.
NationPress
09/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
How many teams will participate in the 2026 World Team Table Tennis Championships?
The championships will feature 64 teams each for both the men's and women's events.
Where will the championship matches take place?
The matches will be held at the Copper Box Arena and Wembley Arena in London.
What is the format of the tournament?
The tournament will be organized into groups with a round-robin format, followed by knockout stages.
When will the finals be held?
The Women's Team final is scheduled for May 9, and the Men's Team final will take place on May 10.
What historical significance does this event hold?
The championships commemorate the 100th anniversary of the first table tennis world championships and the founding of the ITTF.
