No BWF red flag for IG Stadium to host World Championships
The venue has faced criticism from certain players during the ongoing Indian Open Super 750 tournament, following which BWF took stock of the situation before the showpiece event is held in August.
New Delhi: The Indira Gandhi Sports Complex is good enough to host the World Championships, Badminton World Federation said after reviewing facilities and infrastructure on Thursday.
The venue has faced criticism from certain players during the ongoing Indian Open Super 750 tournament, following which BWF took stock of the situation before the showpiece event is held in August.
"The Badminton World Federation (BWF) has engaged with players and teams during the YONEX-SUNRISE India Open 2026 to review conditions at the Indira Gandhi Sports Complex in New Delhi," the world body said in the statement.
"The feedback received — both positive and constructive — is invaluable in shaping the best possible environment for this tournament and future championships. We also acknowledge the comments shared by players and the subsequent media coverage."
Danish player Mia Blichfeldt was the first to call for urgent intervention into "unhealthy" conditions, arising from pollution and presence of stray animals at the venue.
Concerns were raised about cold weather and severe air quality index, which BWF ackonwledged as seasonal challengees rising during the winter season.
"Managing factors related largely to seasonal conditions, such as the haze and cold weather affecting the air quality and temperature inside the venue has posed challenges this week," BWF said.
"However, our assessments confirm that the Indira Gandhi Sports Complex represents a significant upgrade from KD Jadhav Stadium, offering improved infrastructure."
'Upgrade'
BWF also said that initial operational shortcomings at the new venue has been dealt and it is a significant upgrade from the earlier venue of KD Jadhav Stadium.
"While some areas of implementation, including general cleanliness and hygiene plus animal control have required attention, the Badminton Association of India (BAI) has acted promptly to address these concerns," the BWF said.
"Players have also noted the positive enhancements to the playing surface and flooring, gymnasium, and medical facilities." The India Open was being viewed as a key test event ahead of the World Championships, and concerns over readiness had raised questions about the venue's suitability.
"The move to the Indira Gandhi Sports Complex provides greater space for athletes and officials and meets BWF's Field of Play requirements for hosting the BWF World Championships," the statement said.
BWF hoped that lessons learnt during the Indian Open would help in producing an improved experience in August.
"Insights gathered this week will guide further upgrades to deliver a world-class experience in August, where the seasonal issues are not expected being as severe," BWF said.
"Our priority remains ensuring a safe, high-quality environment for all participants, and we are confident this will meet the expectations of all stakeholders. We thank players and teams for their valuable input and reaffirm our commitment to continuous improvement in partnership with BAI."