Benghazi, Libya, will host the 2026 ITTF Africa Cup, marking the first time the city has held such a prestigious event. From February 7–9, top African table tennis players will compete for qualification spots for the 2026 ITTF World Cup in Macao, China. This landmark event promises to boost the profile of African table tennis and showcase some of the continent’s finest athletes.
Libya to Host Historic ITTF Africa Cup
The 2026 ITTF Africa Cup will take place at the Al-Nasr Sports Club in Benghazi, Libya’s second-largest city. The tournament will feature elite men’s and women’s players from across Africa, all aiming to secure a spot in the 2026 ITTF World Cup in Macao.
This marks the first time that Libya has hosted such a high-profile continental table tennis event, symbolizing the growing popularity of the sport in the region. The decision to hold the competition in Benghazi underscores the region’s ambition to increase its influence in international table tennis.
High Stakes for African Players
For the first time in the sport’s history, Libya will play a central role in a major continental event. The stakes are incredibly high, as semifinalists in both the men’s and women’s singles events will earn direct qualification for the 2026 ITTF World Cup.
The tournament’s outcome will not only impact individual players’ careers but also shape the future of African table tennis. The event will bring together some of the continent’s finest players, all vying for a chance to compete at the highest global level.
ITTF Africa President Praises Libya’s Role
Wahid Enitan Oshodi, President of ITTF Africa, praised the Libyan Table Tennis Federation for its commitment to hosting the tournament. He highlighted the significance of the event as a symbol of the sport’s unity and diversity across the continent.
Oshodi noted, “Gatherings like this celebrate both our diversity and our unity, defining what it means to be part of the table tennis family.”
ITTF’s Growing Influence in Africa
ITTF President Petra Sörling also commended the African continent’s rising table tennis profile. She said, “The Africa Cup has become a strong reflection of the continent’s growing influence within the international game.” She acknowledged Libya’s boldness in hosting the event during such a historic period, noting the country’s contributions to global table tennis.
The event serves as a key step in the lead-up to the 2026 centenary of ITTF and the World Team Championships in London, marking 100 years of progress for the sport.
A Celebration of African Ambition and Confidence
The ITTF Africa Cup in Benghazi is more than just a competition—it is a celebration of African table tennis’ rising ambition and confidence. As African players prepare to compete, the world will see the impact of the continent’s growing presence on the global sporting stage.
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