"I am deeply appalled and disappointed by the decision" - Pullela Gopichand on exclusion of badminton from 2026 Commonwealth Games
The 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow have sparked controversy with the decision to exclude key sports such as badminton, wrestling, hockey, shooting, table tennis, and squash. The drastic reduction in the number of sports is part of the host city's efforts to manage costs after stepping in to replace Victoria, Australia, which withdrew due to financial concerns.
However, this exclusion is expected to have a major impact on India’s medal prospects, as the nation has historically excelled in several of these sports, particularly badminton.
The exclusion of badminton has caused an uproar among Indian sports officials. Pullela Gopichand, India’s chief national coach for badminton, openly expressed his dismay. Badminton has been one of India's strongest sports at the Commonwealth Games, consistently contributing to the country's medal tally.
Gopichand, who has played a pivotal role in developing Indian badminton, sees this decision as a significant setback not only for India but for the global badminton community. Reacting to the decision, Pullela Gopichand voiced his deep disappointment.
"I am deeply appalled and disappointed by the decision to exclude badminton from the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow—a judgment that appears aimed at stunting the progress of nations like India," Gopichand said in an official statement released by Badminton Association of India (BAI) media.
He stressed that badminton has been a crucial platform for India’s top talent to make their mark internationally.
"Badminton has brought us immense pride and success, serving as a vital platform for our brightest talents to shine on the international stage," he added.
Gopichand also raised concerns over the reasoning behind this decision, calling it a blow to the sport’s global growth.
"This decision represents a significant lapse not just for Indian badminton, but for the sport worldwide, lacking clear reasoning and jeopardizing its growth," he noted.
He urged the sporting community to take collective action, stating that the reason behind the decision to exclude badminton from the 2026 Commonwealth Games must be discussed.
"It is crucial that we raise our voices and bring this issue to the appropriate authorities to ensure badminton continues to thrive and inspire future generations. As the sport experiences exponential growth globally, the reasons for its exclusion must be scrutinized and discussed with the relevant stakeholders. We cannot allow such shortsighted decisions to undermine the progress we have tirelessly achieved," he concluded.
BAI responds to exclusion of badminton and other major sports from 2026 Commonwealth Games
The Badminton Association of India (BAI) also expressed shock over badminton’s exclusion. Sanjay Mishra, BAI general secretary, emphasized the significant impact this decision would have on India’s medal prospects.
"It's shocking and a huge setback for Indian sports, with nearly 40 medals at risk from the dropped events," Mishra stated.
He expressed concerns that India’s rising sporting potential was being sidelined, saying:
"This isn't just a loss for sports and sportspersons; it feels like a conspiracy to sideline India's rising sporting potential in the region."
Mishra assured that BAI would actively protest the decision. With the exclusion of badminton and other sports, India faces a considerable challenge at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, as the nation’s chances of securing medals in several key sports are now severely diminished.
"The Badminton Association of India stands firmly in protest and will be reaching out to all relevant authorities at the Commonwealth and BWF, as well as the highest levels of government in the country, to advocate for the future of Indian sports," he said.