BREAKING: India Open 2028 shifted to Guwahati; BAI bids for Thomas & Uber Cup

The India Open Super 750 tournament is set to relocate to Guwahati for the 2028 season due to a scheduling conflict with Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi. Badminton Association of India secretary Sanjay announced this decision on Sunday, revealing that the tournament, which is typically held at the IG Indoor Stadium in New Delhi, will be moved to the National Center of Excellence of Badminton in Guwahati for one season.

This shift is necessary as the dates clash with the celebration of the Republic Day in the capital city, making it challenging for players' movement, practice, and the overall tournament. Sanjay explained that the 2026 India Open faced criticism for pollution, leading to discussions about relocating it out of the January to February window.

However, Sanjay emphasized that altering the tournament window is beyond their control as the BWF decides the calendar, including the dates for the 2027 and 2028 events. The 2027 India Open is scheduled from February 2 to 7, while the 2028 edition will take place from January 25 to 30 in Guwahati. Sanjay also revealed that India has placed a bid for the 2028 Thomas and Uber Cup, which will be held at the IG Stadium in Guwahati.

He expressed confidence in securing the bid following the success of the recent World Championships, stating that while other countries have also submitted bids, India's hosting experience gives them an edge. India previously hosted the Thomas and Uber Cup in 2014 at Siri Fort in New Delhi.