The International Table Tennis Federation is delighted to announce that bids are now open to host three of its most prestigious tournaments: the ITTF World Table Tennis Championships Finals 2027 and 2029, and the ITTF World Team Table Tennis Championships Finals 2028. These events offer a unique opportunity for cities to play a pivotal role in the sport’s history, while bringing table tennis to new and diverse global audiences.
The World Championships Finals will see 128 men’s and women’s players in Singles and 64 pairs in each of the doubles events competing in a straight knockout format, with every match packed with significance. The World Team Championships will bring together 64 men’s and women’s teams. This new structure creates more opportunities for players and nations, delivering a thrilling spectacle for millions of fans worldwide.
“We invite all Member Associations to seize this remarkable opportunity to bid for hosting the ITTF World Championships. As we continue to grow table tennis globally, our vision for this event is to showcase our sport and inspire new generations of players and fans. Hosting the World Championships is not just about staging a competition—it’s about creating a lasting legacy for the sport.” – ITTF President Petra Sörling
The ITTF is calling for bids from cities and member 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.
For interested parties, please visit the dedicated website for more information about the bidding process and the requirements for hosting the events. Do note that the deadline for submitting an expression of interest document is on 30 November 2024.
Bidding Timelines
- Expression of Interest [16 September 2024 – 30 November 2024]
- Site Visit & Dialogue [1 January 2025 – 28 February 2025]
- Finalising Bids [1 – 31 March 2025]
- Evaluation of Bids [1 – 30 April 2025]
- Host Cities Election [27 May 2025]
ITTF is offering potential hosts the opportunity to organise a global celebration of table tennis. With cutting-edge marketing and promotional activities, hosts can create a unique experience, bringing together the table tennis community and positioning their cities on the world stage.
ITTF Group CEO Steve Dainton shared his enthusiasm for future hosts: “As we celebrate 100 years in 2026, the following editions will usher in a new century for the ITTF World Championships. We’re eager to continue expanding its rich legacy, taking the event to new hosts and regions, and growing our sport around the globe.
Recent ITTF events reflect our sport’s expanding reach. In 2021, Houston, USA, became the first American host. Chengdu, China, successfully hosted in 2022 despite numerous challenges. Durban, South Africa, made history in 2023 as the first African host in 84 years, and in 2024, Korea Republic held its inaugural ITTF World Championships.
The ITTF World Table Tennis Championships Finals 2025 are set to take place in Doha from 17-25 May, while the landmark centenary edition of the ITTF World Team Table Tennis Championships Finals 2026 will be hosted in London from 1-10 May.