Countdown Begins for BWF World Championships 2026 with Mascot and Anthem Launch

Exciting Launch for BWF World Championships 2026

On July 18, in New Delhi, Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Mansukh Mandaviya, along with Himanta Biswa Sarma, President of the Badminton Association of India (BAI) and Chief Minister of Assam, introduced the official mascot, Peacko, and the championship anthem for the upcoming BWF World Championships set for New Delhi in 2026. This event marks the final 30-day countdown to the prestigious badminton tournament.

The anthem, featuring prominent players like PV Sindhu, Lakshya Sen, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy, and Chirag Shetty, embodies the spirit, ambition, and unity of Indian badminton as it approaches this significant event, as stated in a release from BAI.

For the first time, all 16 Indian shuttlers are showcased together off the court in the anthem, presenting a modern and vibrant image of Indian badminton ahead of its largest home event in 17 years.

Peacko, the official mascot inspired by the Indian Peafowl, will lead BAI's nationwide campaign to engage fans as the tournament approaches.

The unveiling ceremony was attended by various dignitaries, including DG of SAI, Hari Ranjan Rao, IAS, BAI General Secretary Sanjay Mishra, and badminton legend Pullela Gopichand, marking a significant step in the preparations for the Championships.

During the event, Mansukh Mandaviya remarked, “Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has established itself as a global sporting nation, successfully hosting major sporting events across various disciplines. The BWF World Championships in New Delhi 2026 is another proud milestone in this journey, showcasing the rising prominence of Indian badminton and our commitment to developing world-class sports infrastructure and opportunities for athletes.”

The 30th edition of the BWF World Championships will take place from August 17 to 23, featuring over 400 elite shuttlers from more than 50 countries. The Indian team will be led by five-time World Championships medallist PV Sindhu, who has the chance to become the most decorated player in the tournament's history with a sixth medal.

Other notable contenders include former medallists Lakshya Sen and the duo of Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty, alongside rising talents like Ayush Shetty, Unnati Hooda, and the Women’s Doubles team of Gayatri Gopichand and Treesa Jolly.

Peacko, inspired by the Indian Peafowl, symbolizes the host city and the sport, featuring a design reminiscent of a shuttlecock's opening, celebrating badminton's popularity in New Delhi, from local parks to the iconic India Gate.

Himanta Biswa Sarma expressed, “The return of the BWF World Championships to India after 17 years is a historic moment for our sport, reflecting the progress of Indian badminton. Today, India is recognized as a badminton powerhouse, producing inspiring players. New Delhi 2026 offers us a chance to host a world-class Championship, celebrate our journey, and inspire a new generation to embrace the sport. Peacko and the anthem are just the beginning, and I am confident this Championship will leave a lasting impact on badminton in our country.”

The official anthem, a vibrant track influenced by New Delhi's energy and contemporary street rap culture, features all 16 Indian shuttlers and aims to rally fans behind the home team as the tournament approaches.

BAI General Secretary Sanjay Mishra stated, “With just 30 days remaining, today’s unveiling provides fans with a glimpse of the identity and spirit of New Delhi 2026. Peacko and the anthem are designed to resonate with audiences of all ages and celebrate India’s passion for badminton. In the coming weeks, we will engage fans further as we prepare to host the world once again.”

The BWF World Championships, New Delhi 2026, will occur from August 17 to 23, featuring competitions in men’s singles, women’s singles, men’s doubles, women’s doubles, and mixed doubles. As India gears up to host badminton’s premier event after 17 years, the countdown has officially begun.