Indonesia Withdraws As Host Of 2026 BWF World Junior Championships

JAKARTA, Jan 24 (Bernama) -- Indonesia has withdrawn as host of the 2026 BWF World Junior Championships, scheduled for October in Solo, Central Java.

Badminton Association of Indonesia (Persatuan Bulu Tangkis Seluruh Indonesia, PBSI) Head of Foreign Affairs Bambang Roedyanto said the decision was made after a series of evaluations and internal discussions, ANTARA News Agency reported on Saturday.

“The return of the hosting rights for the 2026 BWF World Junior Championships was a difficult decision. However, it was taken after very careful consideration and comprehensive internal discussions, prioritising the best interests of all parties and the sustainability of the championship’s organisation,” he said in a statement on Satruday.

Despite withdrawing as host, Bambang said PBSI remains committed to the development of world badminton and that its cooperative relationship with the BWF will continue.

“PBSI remains fully committed to supporting all programmes and international championships organised by the BWF (Badminton World Federation). 

“The good relationship and cooperation that have been established will continue to be maintained as the foundation of Indonesia’s contribution to the development of world badminton,” he said.

PBSI also extended its apologies to the BWF and all stakeholders for any inconvenience caused by the withdrawal.

Meanwhile, ANTARA reported that the BWF is now working to appoint a new host to ensure the tournament proceeds as planned following PBSI’s withdrawal.

According to the BWF’s official website, the bidding process for the 2026 World Junior Championships has been reopened.

-- BERNAMA