The $950,000 India Open, a significant badminton tournament in the country, is likely to be rescheduled to either February or November starting from 2027. This potential shift in schedule comes as the Badminton World Federation (BWF) deliberates on the hosts for the BWF World Tour for the 2027-2030 cycle. The final decision regarding the rescheduling is expected to be made around the middle of this year, following discussions with the BWF.

Potential Prize Money Increase

While the India Open is expected to retain its Super 750 status, there is a possibility that the total prize money could increase by $30,000-$40,000. The BWF is considering increasing the prize money for most World Tour events.

Past Schedule Changes

Until 2019, the India Open was typically held in March. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the tournament was canceled in 2020 and 2021. Upon its return in 2022, the India Open was moved to January. The 2025 edition of the India Open took place from January 14 to 19 at the K. D. Jadhav Indoor Stadium in New Delhi. The 2026 tournament is currently taking place from January 13-18 at the Indira Gandhi Arena in New Delhi.

All England Open Demotion Discussions

Within the BWF, discussions are reportedly underway regarding the potential demotion of the All England Open Badminton Championships from Super 1000 to Super 750 status. Currently, Super 1000 tournaments, including the All England Open, China Open, Malaysia Open, and Indonesia Open, have a total prize pool of $1.45 million. With the new cycle, the prize money could reach around $2 million. Tournaments unable to meet the financial requirements risk being demoted. While the number of Super 1000 events will remain at four per year, the number of Super 750 events could be reduced from six to four.

Air Quality Concerns

The India Open 2026 has faced scrutiny due to air quality concerns in New Delhi. Anders Antonsen, the world No. 3, withdrew from the tournament, citing hazardous air pollution levels as the primary reason. This marks his third consecutive absence from the India Open, highlighting a consistent pattern driven by health concerns. Antonsen expressed his belief that Delhi is not the right place to host a badminton tournament under the current conditions, suggesting a possible rescheduling or rethinking of the tournament window. Mia Blichfeldt, another Danish shuttler, also raised concerns about the venue conditions, describing them as unhealthy and unprofessional. These concerns have raised doubts about the preparedness for the 2026 BWF World Championships, which are scheduled to be held at the same venue later in the year.