NIGERIA DRAWS HONG KONG AND SOUTH AFRICA IN LONDON 2026 TABLE TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIP

By: Gyang Dakwo

Nigeria has been placed in a demanding group ahead of the 2026 ITTF World Table Tennis Championships, which will be held in London from April 28 to May 10.

The draw ceremony took place on Monday at The Shard in Southwark, London, and it officially launched activities marking the 100th anniversary of the World Championships.

The choice of London carried deep history because the tournament was first staged in the city in 1926.

Speaking at the ceremony, ITTF President Petra Sörling described the moment as historic and symbolic. She said, “From London to London, we have come full circle. England has hosted the championships seven times.”

She also highlighted the importance of returning to the birthplace of the event. “But returning to where it began makes this centenary edition truly special. This event is already historic, and I am confident it will also be unforgettable,” Sörling added.

In the men’s competition, Nigeria was drawn in Group 15 alongside Hong Kong, Saudi Arabia and South Africa. The Nigerian team will be led by Quadri Aruna, and they will be looking to navigate a competitive group to reach the next stage.

Nigeria will also compete in the women’s event, where they were placed in Group 11. The team, captained by Fatimo Bello, will face Australia, Uzbekistan, and Wales in the group matches.

Defending champions China were drawn in Group 1 of the men’s competition, where they will play against hosts England, five-time winners Sweden, and the Republic of Korea Republic. France, who finished as silver medallists at the last edition, were placed in Group 2 alongside Japan, Germany and Chinese Taipei.

In the women’s draw, England were grouped with Japan, Germany and France. China also led Group 1, where they will face the Korea Republic, Chinese Taipei and Romania.

The championships will be played across two venues in London. Stage 1a will feature the top eight seeded teams and will take place at the OVO Arena Wembley from May 2 to May 3. Stage 1b will run from April 28 to May 1 at the Copper Box Arena, where 56 teams will compete for places in the main draw.

The London 2026 edition will mark 100 years since the World Table Tennis Championships were first held, and organizers say the centenary event will celebrate both the history of the sport and the global competition it has become.