Now Reading: BWF keeps India Open in Delhi winter window
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BWF keeps India Open in Delhi winter window
The Badminton World Federation will keep the India Open in New Delhi’s first-quarter calendar despite concerns over winter pollution. BWF secretary general Thomas Lund said it had not been possible to move the Super 750 tournament because of domestic and local scheduling commitments. He said pollution data showed conditions improve later in January and February, and that the tour would now start slightly later to give players a longer break.
The Hindustan Times reports that the 2027 event is scheduled for February 2 to 7 and the 2028 edition for January 25 to 30. It cites criticism from Anders Antonsen, Mia Blichfeldt, Michelle Li and Ratchanok Intanon over smog and cold. Lund also defended badminton’s 3×15 scoring system, which begins on January 4, 2027, saying it should reduce physical strain. The BWF is also working on synthetic shuttlecocks.
Indian Opinion Analysis
The Times of India presents the scheduling issue mainly as a calendar problem, while the Hindustan Times gives greater space to players who describe pollution and cold as health and preparation concerns. The BWF account stresses gradual adjustments, including a later tour start, but does not offer a firm alternative season for the event. The criticism points to conditions athletes may face, while the governing body points to improving pollution later in winter and India’s importance to badminton. A careful reading suggests the dispute is unresolved rather than settled by the calendar change. The dates for the 2027 and 2028 tournaments are the immediate points to watch.
Coverage: 2 sources, 2 neutral
Sources (2): timesofindia.indiatimes.com (neutral report), hindustantimes.com (neutral report)
This story was synthesised by AI from the 2 sources linked above. Methodology and corrections.
Updated: this story now draws on 2 sources.
