2026 ITTF World Team Table Tennis Championships Finals: Nigeria Draws Tough Opponents

Posted : 27 January 2026

As the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) released the draw for the 2026 ITTF World Team Table Tennis Championships Finals, Team Nigeria has been handed tricky opponents in Hong Kong, Saudi Arabia, and South Africa in Group 15, in the all-nations affair set to take place in London from April 29 to May 10.

According to the draw conducted at the Shangri-La Hotel at The Shard, the Quadri Aruna-led men’s Team Nigeria will battle difficult opposition from Asian giants Hong Kong, who boast some of the finest young players in the world, as well as Middle Eastern powerhouses Saudi Arabia and continental rivals South Africa.

In the women’s category, Fatimo Bello will captain Nigeria in Group 11, where they will confront Australia, Uzbekistan, and Wales.

African champions Egypt, led by Omar Assar, received a favourable draw in the men’s event, facing Kazakhstan, Turkey, and Thailand.

Rising star Hana Goda will lead Egypt’s women’s team against Algeria, South Africa, and Syria.

Reigning champions China, winners of the last 11 editions, headline Group 1 alongside host nation England, five-time winners Sweden, and Korea Republic.

France, silver medallists at the last edition, will face Japan, Germany, and Chinese Taipei in Group 2 as they bid to lift the Swaythling Cup for the first time.

In the women’s competition, hosts England are drawn in Group 2 with Japan, Germany, and France, while China, 23-time Corbillon Cup winners, lead Group 1 against Korea Republic, Chinese Taipei, and Romania.

The top eight seeds in each competition will contest Stage 1a at OVO Arena Wembley from May 2–3, 2026, with all teams progressing to Stage 2.

Group performances will determine seedings for the knockout rounds.

Stage 1b will take place at the Copper Box Arena from April 28 to May 1, 2026, as 56 teams in each competition battle for the remaining 24 places in the Main Draw.

London 2026 marks 100 years since the first World Championships were held in the city in 1926, making this the most significant edition in the event’s history.

“From London to London, we have come full circle,” said ITTF President Petra Sörling.

“England has hosted the World Championships on seven occasions, but returning to where it all began makes this centenary edition truly special. This event is already historic, but I am confident it will also be unforgettable.”

2026 ITTF World Team Table Tennis Championships Finals: Nigeria Draws Tough Opponents

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