2026 Thomas Cup: China vs. France Final Schedule & Lineups
The 2026 Thomas Cup concludes today with a final that no one predicted but everyone is eager to witness. At the Forum Horsens in Denmark, the traditional powerhouse China faces the ultimate underdog and tournament sensation, France, for the world’s most prestigious men’s team trophy.
China is chasing another addition to their trophy cabinet, relying on a balanced and high-caliber squad. Meanwhile, France has made history by becoming the first European team in years to reach the final, powered by the incredible momentum of the Popov brothers and the teenage prodigy Alex Lanier. In a tactical move, France has once again stacked their singles matches at the front, hoping to secure an insurmountable lead.
The championship battle begins at 6:00 PM local time, promising a night of high-drama badminton for fans in Europe and a late-night vigil for supporters in Asia.
Match Schedule: China vs. France
- Date: May 3, 2026
- Venue: Forum Horsens, Court 1
- Stage: Grand Final
| Match | Category | China (CHN) | vs. | France (FRA) | Local/FRA Time (UTC+2) | China Time (UTC+8) |
| 1 | MS 1 | Shi Yuqi | vs. | Christo Popov | 06:00 PM | 12:00 AM (May 4) |
| 2 | MS 2 | Li Shifeng | vs. | Alex Lanier | 06:50 PM* | 12:50 AM (May 4)* |
| 3 | MS 3 | Weng Hongyang | vs. | Toma Junior Popov | 07:40 PM* | 01:40 AM (May 4)* |
| 4 | MD 2 | He Jiting / Ren Xiangyu | vs. | Eloi Adam / Leo Rossi | 08:30 PM* | 02:30 AM (May 4)* |
| 5 | MD 1 | Liang Weikeng / Wang Chang | vs. | Christo Popov / Toma Junior Popov | 09:20 PM* | 03:20 AM (May 4)* |
*Estimated start times; matches follow a “Followed By” schedule.
Where to Watch: Broadcast & Streaming
Catch the final of the 2026 Thomas Cup live through these official broadcasters:
- In France:
- Television: L’Équipe TV and L’Équipe Live.
- Digital: The L’Équipe app will provide live streaming and real-time commentary.
- In China:
- Television: CCTV-5 (China Central Television).
- Digital/Streaming: Migu Video, Youku, BesTV, and Huya.
- Global Access:
- BWF TV: Available via the BWF YouTube channel (check for regional restrictions).
- Olympic Channel: Live highlights and clips on Olympics.com.
Key Matchups to Watch
- The Opening Duel (MS1): Shi Yuqi vs. Christo Popov. Shi’s technical perfection faces Christo’s raw energy and left-handed trickery. For France to dream of the title, Christo likely needs to provide a massive opening upset.
- Battle of the Rising Stars (MS2): All eyes are on Alex Lanier as he takes on the athletic Li Shifeng. Lanier has been the breakout star of 2026, and his ability to handle Li’s high-tempo attacking play will be a deciding factor in the tie.
- The “Doubles” Twist (MD1): In a unique lineup, the world number one pair Liang Weikeng and Wang Chang are scheduled for the final match. If France can take the singles, the Chinese duo will be under immense pressure to save the tie against the scratch pairing of Toma Junior Popov and Lucas Renoir.
The Championship Point: The first team to three points (Best-of-Five) will be crowned the 2026 Thomas Cup Champions. As the final match of the tournament, the winner will take home the gold and the historic Thomas Cup trophy.
