Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya and Badminton Association of India (BAI) President and Assam Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma on Saturday, 18 July 2025, unveiled Peacko — the official mascot for the BWF World Championships 2026 — and launched the tournament's official anthem in New Delhi, marking the start of the final 30-day countdown to badminton's most prestigious global event.

Meet Peacko: The Mascot and What It Represents

Peacko draws its identity from the Indian Peafowl, the national bird of India and a familiar presence across New Delhi's parks and landmarks. The mascot's skirt is inspired by the flared silhouette of a shuttlecock, blending the symbols of the host nation, the host city, and the sport itself. According to BAI, Peacko will anchor a nationwide fan engagement campaign in the weeks leading up to the Championships, targeting audiences across age groups.

The Official Anthem and India's 16-Member Contingent

The championship anthem — a high-energy track rooted in New Delhi's street rap culture — features all 16 Indian shuttlers competing at the event, marking the first time the full home contingent has appeared together off court. The lineup includes five-time World Championships medallist PV Sindhu, former medallists Lakshya Sen and the men's doubles pair of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, as well as rising stars Ayush Shetty, Unnati Hooda, and the women's doubles pair of Gayatri Gopichand and Treesa Jolly.

Key Voices at the Unveiling

The ceremony was attended by DG, SAI, Hari Ranjan Rao IAS, BAI General Secretary Sanjay Mishra, and Indian badminton legend Pullela Gopichand, among other senior officials. Dr. Mandaviya said: 'The BWF World Championships, New Delhi 2026, mark another proud milestone in this journey. It reflects the growing stature of Indian badminton and our unwavering commitment to creating world-class sporting infrastructure and providing greater opportunities for our athletes.' Dr. Sarma described the event as 'a landmark moment,' adding: 'Today, India is recognised as one of the world's badminton powerhouses, producing players who have inspired many.' BAI General Secretary Sanjay Mishra said the mascot and anthem were 'created to connect with audiences across age groups and celebrate India's passion for badminton.'

What the Tournament Looks Like

The 30th edition of the BWF World Championships will run from 17 to 23 August 2026 in New Delhi, bringing together more than 400 shuttlers from over 50 countries across all five disciplines — men's singles, women's singles, men's doubles, women's doubles, and mixed doubles. India is hosting the event after a gap of 17 years.

PV Sindhu's Historic Opportunity

PV Sindhu, who has won five World Championships medals across her career, could become the most decorated medallist in the tournament's history with a sixth podium finish in New Delhi. Her performance will be among the most closely watched storylines of the home edition. Notably, this is the biggest home badminton event for India in nearly two decades, raising both the stakes and the spotlight for the entire contingent.