Auckland, New Zealand – The VICTOR Oceania Championships 2026 commenced today, , at the Badminton North Harbour Centre, marking the start of a five-day tournament that promises intense competition and a new format for the premier badminton event in the Pacific region. The championships will run through , encompassing both Individual and Team Championships.
This year’s edition, the 20th Oceania Championships, features a revised structure designed to provide a greater spread of matches, according to event organizers. The tournament is sanctioned by both Badminton Oceania and the Badminton World Federation, solidifying its position as a key event on the continental badminton calendar.
The Badminton North Harbour Centre will host the best players from across Oceania as they battle for glory in the Individual Championships, followed by the Men’s and Women’s Team Championships from to . The event is free to attend, and a cafe will be available onsite for spectators.
The tournament’s structure aligns with the BWF International Challenge event point distribution system. Winners in both singles and doubles events will receive 4,000 points, while runners-up will be awarded 3,400 points. Semi-finalists will earn 2,800 points, quarter-finalists 2,200, those reaching the round of 16 will receive 1,520, and players finishing between 17th and 32nd will gain 920 points. Players reaching the round of 32 will receive 360 points.
Prize money for the individual event reflects the tournament’s competitive standing. Winners in both singles and doubles categories will take home NZD 900, with finalists receiving NZD 600. Semi-finalists will be awarded NZD 250.
The VICTOR Oceania Championships have become a crucial stepping stone for athletes aiming to qualify for major international tournaments, including the BWF World Championships, the Sudirman Cup, and the Olympics. The event provides valuable ranking points and competitive experience for players across the Oceania region.
Badminton Oceania has positioned the championships as a showcase for the growing talent within the region. The tournament’s accessibility – being free to attend – aims to foster greater public engagement with the sport and inspire the next generation of badminton players in New Zealand and beyond.
The event is organized by Badminton North Harbour and Badminton Oceania, demonstrating a collaborative effort to elevate the profile of badminton in the region. Live streams and live scores are available via Badminton Oceania, allowing fans to follow the action remotely. Tournament prospectuses, transport requests, visa requests, and practice requests are available through the Badminton Oceania website.
The VICTOR Oceania Championships 2026 represents a significant moment for badminton in Oceania, bringing together the region’s top athletes and providing a platform for showcasing the sport’s increasing popularity. As the tournament unfolds over the next five days, fans can expect a high level of competition and exciting matches at the Badminton North Harbour Centre.
