India to Host 26th Senior Asian Fencing Championships at Bharat Mandapam

The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has approved funding for the 26th Senior Asian Fencing Championships, set to take place at Bharat Mandapam from June 19 to June 24, 2026. This event marks the first competitive use of the venue, previously reserved for diplomatic events. With over 400 athletes from 30 countries participating, the tournament signifies India's growing reputation as a global sports host. The Fencing Association of India has announced a strong 24-member contingent, featuring both rising stars and experienced athletes. The championships will kick off with preliminary rounds on Friday, followed by the opening ceremony and knockout stages.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 18, 2026, 18:56 IST

Financial Support for Fencing Championships

The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has granted financial assistance to the Fencing Association of India under the Assistance to National Sports Federation Scheme. This funding is aimed at facilitating the 26th Senior Asian Fencing Championships, which will take place from June 19 to June 24, 2026.

Bharat Mandapam's Sporting Milestone

This championship will be the inaugural competitive sporting event hosted at the Bharat Mandapam complex in Pragati Maidan, which opened in 2023. Previously, this venue was exclusively used for significant diplomatic events, including the G20 summit. Its transformation into a sports venue marks a significant advancement for indoor sports facilities in India, accommodating over 400 elite athletes from more than 30 nations.

Significance for Indian Fencing

"Hosting such a prestigious tournament is a landmark achievement for Indian fencing," remarked CA Bhavani Devi, India's first fencing Olympian, who will compete in the women's sabre category, as noted in a press release.

India's Emergence as a Global Sports Venue

India has quickly established itself as a capable host for multi-sport events, successfully organizing numerous international competitions in various sports in recent years. This championship will also act as a precursor to the Commonwealth Games 2030, scheduled for four years later. Recently, India has hosted significant events like the World Para Athletics Championships 2025 and is actively pursuing the opportunity to host the 2036 Olympics.

India's 24-Member Fencing Team

The Fencing Association of India has confirmed a strong 24-member national team, comprising 12 male and 12 female athletes. This squad includes promising talents and Khelo India Athletes (KIAs) such as Karan Singh (Sabre) and Shreya Gupta (Sabre), alongside Target Asian Games Group (TAGG) athletes like Bhavani Devi (Sabre) and Taniksha Khatri (Épée). Notably, 17 members of the team are KIAs.

Championship Schedule

The Senior Asian Fencing Championships will commence on Friday with preliminary pools and elimination rounds for the individual Men's Sabre and Women's Foil events, followed by the Opening Ceremony at 6 PM. The team knockout stages will begin on June 22.

Complete Indian Squad

*Complete Indian Squad: Epee Women: Taniksha Khatri, Prachi Lohan, Mitva Chaudhari, Yashkeerat Kaur Hayer; Epee Men: Sherjin Rajendran Shanthimol, Joseph Bennet, Shaurya Ashwini, Aloshious Koovakkal Joshy; Foil Women: Joys Ashitha Stalinraj, Naorem Mina Devi, Kanupriya Chawla, Sonia Devi Waikhom; Foil Men: Sachin, Sanasam Hemash Singh, Aditya, Tejas Manoj Patil; Sabre Women: Bhavani Devi, Shreya Gupta, Jefarlin J S., Shruti Joshi; Sabre Men: Karan Singh, Gisho Nidhi K.P., Lakshay Badser, Vishal Thapar.