Baku to host Azerbaijan Junior Open 2026 badminton tournament

Baku will host the Azerbaijan Junior Open 2026 badminton tournament from August 14 to 16, marking the first time the country stages an international event in the Junior International Series category.

According to state media, citing the national badminton federation, the tournament will bring together young athletes from Azerbaijan, Türkiye, the United States, Iran, India, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, the United Arab Emirates, and Georgia.

The total prize fund is set at $5,000 (approximately 8,500 manats).

Azerbaijan will field a team of 22 junior players, including 13 girls and 9 boys, under the guidance of head coach Morteza Validarvi.

Competition is scheduled to begin at 09:00 on August 14 and will be held across five categories. The tournament will conclude with the finals on August 16.

Greek official Christos Evangelidis will serve as the chief referee.

Organizers say the event aims to enhance international competitive experience for youth badminton players, support their professional development and strengthen the competitive environment among athletes.

By Tamilla Hasanova