PBSI foreign relations department head, Bambang Roedyanto, said that in the current condition, it is no longer feasible for Indonesia to proceed as the host. The championship was supposed to take place from October 12 to 28, 2026, in Surakarta, Central Java.
"It was decided following careful consideration and comprehensive internal dialogue by prioritizing the best interest of all parties, as well as the optimum organization of the championship," Roedyanto said in PBSI's official statement on Saturday.
"Relinquishing our rights to host the 2026 BWF World Junior Championships is a difficult decision," he stressed.
PBSI understood that the BWF World Junior Championships is an important agenda for the development of young badminton talents in many countries. The tournament serves as the benchmark of junior badminton development at the global level.
Although waiving its hosting rights to the BWF, the Indonesian federation emphasized that its commitment to badminton development and cooperation with the BWF remains solid.
"PBSI is fully committed to supporting all programs and international championships organized by BWF. We will maintain good relations and cooperation as the foundation of Indonesia's contribution to the world's badminton," Roedyanto said.
PBSI expressed its apology to BWF and all stakeholders for any inconvenience that may arise from the decision.
The organization also expressed hope that cooperation with BWF will continue in other opportunities, including international championships.
Responding to PBSI's decision, BWF is now working to appoint a new host to ensure the successful continuation of the tournament. As announced on the BWF official website, the bidding process for the 2026 junior championship has reopened.
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Translator: Muhammad Ramdan, Nabil Ihsan
Editor: Rahmad Nasution
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