The BWF Thomas & Uber Cup Finals 2026 kick off tomorrow in Horsens. Europe’s top men’s and women’s teams are ready to test themselves against the world’s strongest powerhouses.

The group stage will be taking place until 29 April. These opening days are therefore decisive for the European teams to secure a place in the knockout rounds.

Uber Cup: tough tests from the start
Five European teams will be competing in the Uber Cup, spread across three groups featuring some of the tournament favourites.

In Group A, hosts Denmark and Ukraine face an immediate challenge against defending champions China and a strong Indian team. Denmark’s strength lies on their experienced singles players, while Ukraine will give it their all to make an early statement.

Group B will have Türkiye up against Japan – one of the favourites – as well as Malaysia and South Africa. 

Meanwhile, Group D will features an all-European clash between Spain and European champion Bulgaria, with Korea and Thailand also in the mix. Bulgaria arrive in Horsens with confidence after winning the continental trophy.

One of the standout ties of the group stage could come in Group A, where Denmark and India are expected to battle for a spot in the knockout stage.

Thomas Cup: France and Denmark lead European hopes
In the Thomas Cup, five European nations are also represented, with many exciting clashes.

Group B brings England and Finland into a difficult group with Japan and Malaysia, where both European nations will need strong performances to challenge for qualification.

Group C has one of the most competitive line-ups, with Denmark, Sweden, Chinese Taipei and Korea. Denmark, ten years on from their historic title, will look to lead Europe’s charge, although recent developments have impacted their squad depth. Frederik Søgaard announced his retirement earlier this year, Viktor Axelsen – already sidelined due to injury – confirmed last week that he would also retire, and Rasmus Gemke was ruled out yesterday with injury. William Bøgebjerg has been called up as replacement.

In Group D, France are part of a tough group with Indonesia and Thailand. With strength in men’s singles through the Popov brothers and Alex Lanier, France have the potential to challenge for a place in the knockout stage.

Opening day: key matches for Europe
The tournament begins with several European teams already in action in all three sessions:

• 08:30 – China vs Ukraine (Uber Cup)
• 12:00 – France vs Thailand (Thomas Cup)
• 12:00 – India vs Denmark (Uber Cup)
• 12:00 – Korea vs Spain (Uber Cup)
• 18:30 – Denmark vs Korea (Thomas Cup)
• 18:30 – Thailand vs Bulgaria (Uber Cup)

All times indicated are in CEST.