New Delhi, July 18 (). Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya and President of Badminton Association of India (BAI) and Chief Minister of Assam Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma on Saturday launched Peko, the official mascot and anthem for the BWF World Championships 2026.
The unveiling ceremony was attended by Sports Authority of India (SAI) DG Hari Ranjan Rao, BAI Honorary General Secretary Sanjay Mishra, Indian badminton legend Pullela Gopichand, senior officials and members of the badminton fraternity.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Mandaviya said, “Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India has emerged as a global sporting nation, having successfully organized some of the world’s biggest sporting events across sports. The BWF World Championships, New Delhi 2026, is another proud moment in this journey. It is a testament to the growing stature of Indian badminton and the creation of world-class sporting infrastructure and providing our athletes with more opportunities to compete. It shows our strong intention to provide opportunities.”
Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma said, “The return of the BWF World Championships to India after 17 years is a momentous moment for our sport, and shows how far Indian badminton has come. India is recognized as one of the world’s badminton powerhouses, having produced players who have inspired many. With New Delhi 2026, we have the opportunity to not only host a world-class championship, but also celebrate that journey. It is also an opportunity to celebrate, bring together the new generation of fans and inspire countless young Indians to pick up the racket. PICO and the official anthem are the first steps in that journey. I am sure this championship will leave a lasting legacy for badminton in our country.”
BAI Honorary Secretary General Sanjay Mishra said, “With just 30 days left for the Championships, the unveiling event gives fans the first real glimpse of the identity and spirit of New Delhi 2026. The PICO and Championship anthems are designed to connect with audiences across age groups and celebrate India’s passion for badminton. In the coming weeks, we look forward to bringing fans even closer to the Championships through a number of exciting initiatives.” Let’s hope so as we prepare to host the world once again.”
The official mascot, Peko, is inspired by the Indian peacock—the national bird of India and a familiar sight in New Delhi’s parks and monuments. Combining the identities of India, the host city and badminton, PICO features a skirt inspired by the shuttlecock opening, while also celebrating the sport’s deep popularity across the capital, from neighborhood parks to the famous India Gate lawns.
Featuring PV Sindhu, Lakshya Sen, Satwiksairaj Rankireddy, Chirag Shetty and India’s entire 16-member World Championship squad, the anthem captures the energy, purpose and unity of Indian badminton. It also showcases the modern form of Indian badminton. Along with the official mascot Peko, inspired by the Indian peacock, it will lead BAI’s nationwide fan engagement campaign ahead of New Delhi 2026.
The official championship anthem was also launched along with the mascot, a high-energy track inspired by the vibrancy of New Delhi and the street rap culture of India today. Showcasing all 16 Indian shuttlers taking part in the championship, the anthem captures the confidence, goals and enthusiasm surrounding Indian badminton.
The BWF World Championship 2026 will be held in New Delhi from 17 to 23 August. In this, more than 400 of the world’s best shuttlers from more than 50 countries will come together. Five-time World Championship medalist PV Sindhu will lead the Indian team. Medal contenders include Lakshya Sen and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy and Chirag Shetty as well as rising stars Aayush Shetty, Unnati Hooda and the women’s doubles pair of Gayatri Gopichand and Trisa Jolly. Events include men’s singles, women’s singles, men’s doubles, women’s doubles and mixed doubles. India will host this big badminton event after 17 years.
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PAK