Danish shuttler Mia Blichfeldt on India Open conditions: ‘Find it very difficult to see how a World Championship could be held here’

“The past few days in India have been tough – tougher than I honestly expected. I had mentally prepared myself for “the worst” once again, but the conditions surrounding us are simply unacceptable and highly unprofessional,” Blichfeldt posted on Instagram on Thursday.

Indira Gandhi Sports Complex, the venue for Indian Open badminton tournament. (Express Photo by Abhinav Saha)

“We are here to perform and to stay focused on our preparations, both on and off the court. Unfortunately, under these circumstances, it becomes extremely difficult to focus solely on competing and delivering our best performance. Everyone is stressed and frustrated by the conditions we are being met with at a World Tour Super 750 event. At first, you try to laugh off but in the end, it is neither funny nor fair to the players or anyone participating in this event.”

Since Blichfeldt’s original comments, the organisers have been in damage control mode, with the Badminton Association of India and Badminton World Federation issuing multiple statements in response to the continuous criticism. Most recently, on Thursday, the BWF acknowledged issues regarding ‘general cleanliness, hygiene and animal control’. However, the BWF also reiterated that the IG Stadium is fit to host the World Championships in August. The BAI has also said that improvements will be made in time for the marquee event in August, working with the BWF to meet their requirements.

A monkey at the Indira Gandhi Sports Complex hosting the India Open badminton super 750 tournament. (Photo courtesy: Dewismashes/Instagram)

“The Badminton World Federation (BWF) has engaged with players and teams during India Open 2026 to review conditions at the Indira Gandhi Sports Complex in New Delhi,” the governing body said in a statement. “The feedback received — both positive and constructive — is invaluable in shaping the best possible environment for this tournament and future championships. We also acknowledge the comments shared by players and the subsequent media coverage.”

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“Managing factors related largely to seasonal conditions, such as the haze and cold weather affecting the air quality and temperature inside the venue has posed challenges this week. However, our assessments confirm that the Indira Gandhi Sports Complex represents a significant upgrade from KD Jadhav Stadium, offering improved infrastructure. While some areas of implementation, including general cleanliness and hygiene plus animal control have required attention, the Badminton Association of India (BAI) has acted promptly to address these concerns. Players have also noted the positive enhancements to the playing surface and flooring, gymnasium, and medical facilities.”

World number 20 shuttler Mia Blichfeldt is not happy with the venue for the India Open tournament which will also host the BWF World Championships in August 2026. (Photo: BWF/Badminton Photo)

Blichfeldt, who had criticised the tournament last year too, added that she was glad to see the attention on the issues she has highlighted. Her Instagram post included images of bird droppings on ground, hazy conditions in the arena among other things. But the world No 20 shuttler still questioned whether the World Championships can be hosted here.

“I am glad that this issue is finally receiving the attention it deserve and I truly hope for better conditions for us players in the future if we are to continue competing in India. Sadly, under the current circumstances, I find it very difficult to see how a World Championship could be held here. I hope ®bwf.official will do more to ensure proper conditions and better protection for the players in the future.”