GANGNEUNG CITY ENG - 솔향강릉

- Emerging as a leader in hosting international competitions, Gangneung City secures the bid over Elche, Alicante, Spain, after intense competition -

     ​Under the leadership of Mayor Kim Hong-kyu and the guidance of President Yoo Seung-min from the Korea Table Tennis Association (KTTA), Gangneung City has triumphantly secured the hosting rights for the 2026 World Masters Table Tennis Championships, scheduled for May 2026.

     ​On Monday, February 26, Gangneung City and the KTTA announced their successful bid as the host for the 2026 World Masters Table Tennis Championships following a close competition. The decision was made during the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) Board of Directors meeting held at the Busan Exhibition & Convention Center (BEXCO), where Gangneung won over Elche in Alicante, Spain.

     ​The victory was the result of several months of diligent collaboration and concerted efforts between Gangneung City and the KTTA. A pivotal moment in their successful bid was President Yoo Seung-min’s compelling presentation at the “2024 ITTF SUMMIT,” held at BEXCO on the 22nd. As an executive member of the ITTF, President Yoo’s dynamic and insightful presentation captured the attention of federation officials, significantly contributing to the bid’s success.

     ​The World Masters Table Tennis Championships is an inclusive event open to both professional and amateur players aged 40 and above. This prestigious competition awards a total of 44 medals across five categories: men’s singles, women’s singles, doubles, mixed doubles, and team events, further divided into 11 age groups spanning every 5 years.

     ​Traditionally held in Europe every 2 years, the championships are now increasingly expanding to Asia, indicating a rising global interest in table tennis. With approximately 4,000 competitors from over 70 countries, the event expects to draw over 10,000 visitors to Gangneung, including the athletes’ families and supporters.

     ​Moreover, hosting the ITS World Congress in October of the same year is expected to synergistically boost the local economy, significantly benefiting the region.

     ​Gangneung City and the KTTA are actively preparing for the successful execution of the 2026 World Masters Table Tennis Championships. They are diligently assessing the competition venues and lodging facilities to ensure everything meets standards and to address any identified issues. Furthermore, an organizing committee comprising specialists from various sectors is being assembled to lead the event’s preparations vigorously.

     ​Gangneung Mayor Kim Hong-kyu expressed sincere appreciation for the efforts that made this opportunity possible. He said, “I extend my heartfelt thanks to President Yoo Seung-min of the KTTA, Vice President Kim Taek-soo, who handles the operational aspects, and all the stakeholders for their unwavering support in bringing the 2026 World Masters Table Tennis Championships to Gangneung. Drawing on our city’s experience as the proud host of the 2018 Winter Olympics and the upcoming 2024 Winter Youth Olympics, we commit to sparing no effort to make this championship the most memorable one yet.”

     In related news, the anticipation for the 2024 World Masters Table Tennis Championships in Rome this July is skyrocketing. Around 6,000 participants have already indicated their intention to compete, showcasing the global table tennis community’s enthusiastic response.