Today marks the start of the final countdown to the ITTF World Team Table Tennis Championships Finals and we can now confirm the countries England could face in Stage 1a!

With 100 days to go until London welcomes the biggest stars on to the biggest stage in table tennis, excitement is really starting to build.

From every continent, 64 men’s teams and 64 women’s teams will take to the arena in the biggest World Championships ever – a fitting way to mark the centenary back in the city where the first Worlds was held in 1926.

The Copper Box Arena in the heart of London’s Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and the iconic OVO Arena Wembley will be packed with passionate fans cheering their favourites as they compete in pursuit of the ultimate prize of becoming the best table tennis nation on the planet.

Hosts England will be front and centre on a sensational Bank Holiday weekend at Wembley, when they will join the top seven seeded nations in stage 1a.

Who could England play?

England plus the top seven seeds will meet at OVO Arena Wembley on 2 and 3 May. The eight nations will be drawn into two groups of four, meaning England Men and England Women are each guaranteed three mouthwatering fixtures against top teams.

The men could face defending champions China or Olympic bronze medallists France, who are the top two seeds. Also in the top bracket are Sweden, Japan, Republic of Korea, Germany and Chinese Taipei.

In the women’s draw, defending champions China are again the top seeds, with Japan second. Next come Republic of Korea, Germany, France, Chinese Taipei and Romania.

We’ll be announcing the date of the draw very soon, so keep an eye on our website and social media channels!

Get involved – join our volunteer team

Team London Volunteering is providing volunteers for the Championships and the application process is now open.

This is your chance to be part of the action – as a Team London Ambassador, you’ll be at the heart of the championships, helping to shape the success of every match and creating unforgettable experiences for athletes, officials, coaches and thousands of fans.

Deadline for expression of interest is Wednesday 28 January 2026 at 11.59pm.

Click here for more information or to make an application.