The French Table Tennis Federation (FFTT) has officially submitted its bid to host the 2027 World Table Tennis Championships in Montpellier, presenting a comprehensive project built around the theme “A Vision for the Future.” The proposal reflects France’s ambition to deliver a high-quality international event while investing in long-term legacy and development for the sport nationwide.
If awarded, this would be the fifth time France hosts the World Championships, following previous editions in Paris (1934, 1977, 2003, 2013). The event will also coincide with the 100th anniversary of the FFTT, giving special symbolic weight to the occasion.
Montpellier has been chosen as the host city for its proven experience with international events and its accessibility. The centerpiece of the bid is the Sud de France Arena, which successfully hosted the WTT Champions event in 2024 and is well-equipped for a global championship.
All key sites—including competition halls, practice venues, hotels, and the airport—are located within a 10 km radius, enabling a streamlined and athlete-friendly experience. The “5-minute venue” concept ensures optimal logistics for players, officials, and media.
Beyond the competition itself, the FFTT’s bid places a strong emphasis on legacy and community impact. Key initiatives include:
- Donation of tables and equipment used at the championships to grassroots clubs and institutions
- Development of outdoor ping-pong spaces in urban areas to make the sport more accessible
- National outreach in schools and public spaces, encouraging youth participation and table tennis as a lifelong activity
- A “Ping Tour” across France and Europe in the lead-up to the event to engage new audiences
These projects are designed to extend the benefits of hosting well beyond the event dates, strengthening participation and visibility across the country.
France’s history in the sport is long and established. As one of the founding nations of international table tennis, it has produced world champions like Jean-Philippe GATIEN, who serves as an ambassador for the 2027 bid. The FFTT has grown from just 5,000 members in 1927 to over 265,000 registered players today.
The 2027 World Championships would represent a milestone—both a celebration of a century of French table tennis and a launching point for the sport’s continued evolution in France.
