Wichita to Host its First USA Badminton Championship

USA Badminton will bring a national championship event to Kansas for the first time as Wichita has been named host of the 2026 YONEX U.S. Junior National Championships. Visit Wichita will host the July 8–14 event in partnership with Wichita’s Edge Sports Complex.

“We are excited to partner with the Wichita community to host the 2026 YONEX Junior National Championships, one of USA Badminton’s most important events on our national calendar,” said John W. Ruger, interim CEO of USA Badminton. “This championship brings together the country’s top young athletes, coaches and families for high level competition, development and connection. Wichita’s central location in the Midwest provides strong accessibility for athletes and families from across the United States, and the community’s commitment to our sport makes it an outstanding destination for this event. We look forward to welcoming participants from across the country to Wichita in 2026.”

The event is expected to draw more than 600 youth athletes from across the United States, along with coaches and family members. Visit Wichita estimates the championship will generate an estimated $1 million in economic impact to the Wichita area.

“Securing the 2026 YONEX U.S. Junior National Championships is a major milestone for Wichita and the state of Kansas,” said Josh Howell, vice president of sports development at Visit Wichita. “Hosting this event for the first time underscores Wichita’s reputation as a trusted host for national-level sporting events.”

The badminton event is the latest one to come to Wichita for the first time:

• In January 2025, Wichita hosted the Prevagen U.S. Figure Skating Championships, marking the first time the event had been held in Kansas.
• Wichita recently hosted the USA Judo Youth Nationals, bringing USA Judo national championship event to Kansas for the first time.
• The 2026 Women’s National Invitation Tournament (WBIT) semifinals and finals will be held in April at Charles Koch Arena on the Wichita State University campus for the first time.
• Wichita will also become the first city in the nation to host the US Youth Soccer National Presidents Cup for three consecutive years (2026–2028).

“Wichita’s momentum as a sports destination continues to grow,” Howell said. “From basketball to judo to badminton and beyond, we’re demonstrating our ability to compete at the highest level. Each event enhances our economy, strengthens community pride and reinforces Wichita’s position as a leading sports destination.”