ITTF unveils new World Para Circuit structure set to transform Para Table Tennis
The International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) today announced a comprehensive overhaul of the ITTF World Para Circuit, introducing a reimagined structure that promises to elevate Para table tennis worldwide.
With a brand-new logo, three competitive event tiers, an updated ranking system, and an ambitious schedule of over 20 events across all continents, the new circuit aims to deliver world-class competition and inspire fans like never before. ITTF President
Petra Sörling reaffirmed the federation’s dedication to growing the reach and appeal of Para table tennis: “The ITTF World Para Circuit will elevate Para table tennis to new heights, building on the momentum of the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, which captivated fans, energized crowds, and drew increased interest from broadcasters worldwide.”
Video: Get Ready For a New ITTF World Para Circuit!
New Three-Tier Event Structure: Future, Challenger, and Elite
The ITTF World Para Circuit 2025 will highlight athletes across three competition tiers: Future, Challenger, and Elite. Each tier offers Para players distinct opportunities to progress, gain experience, and compete at increasingly high levels.
Future Events introduce emerging talents to international competition, providing a platform to hone their skills and build their ranking. Challenger Events increase the stakes, with larger competitions and heightened intensity, offering up to eight Challenger events each year to deliver thrilling matchups. Elite Events bring together the top players worldwide for the ultimate showdowns, crowning champions and showcasing the very best of Para table tennis.
Additionally, the ITTF will pilot a select number of youth events, which, if successful, may become a permanent fixture in the years ahead.
Tamasu Co., Ltd., the renowned manufacturer and distributor of Butterfly table tennis products, has been named the Official Ball Partner for the ITTF World Para Elite 2025. The Butterfly Three-Star Ball R40+ will set a new benchmark for quality, ensuring players can perform at their best in every match.
Takako Osawa, President and Managing Director of Tamasu Co., Ltd., expressed pride in the partnership: “Butterfly has long supported Para table tennis, and we are honoured to contribute to this exciting new circuit by providing the official ball of Elite Events that will enhance the performance of the sport’s top players.”
Expanding Global Reach: Over 20 Events Worldwide
The 2025 calendar includes more than 20 events across the world, making it the most global and diverse Para circuit in ITTF history. From bustling metropolises to promising new markets, the ITTF World Para Circuit will bring Para table tennis to fans everywhere, connecting them with athletes from around the globe.
ITTF Group Chief Executive Officer Steve Dainton expressed enthusiasm, “Expanding our circuit is essential to providing more opportunities for players to compete and for fans to engage. This step is key to fulfilling our ambition of strengthening Para table tennis on a worldwide scale.”
The Continental Championships are scheduled for Autumn 2025 in Brazil, China, Egypt, New Zealand, and Sweden, further expanding the sport’s reach and accessibility.
The complete ITTF World Para Circuit 2025 calendar can be found here.
Revamped Ranking System Boosting Participation
In alignment with the new circuit structure, ITTF will introduce a revamped ranking system that offers players a clear and accessible path for advancement. Points are awarded based on performance at each event, with rankings reflecting the best results within the past 52 weeks. Rankings will now be updated on a weekly basis, allowing fans and players alike to track progress in real-time.
A one-year transition period will allow players to defend their current points as they adapt to the new ranking system, making the pathway to the top clearer than ever.
The Para table tennis community eagerly awaits the debut of the ITTF World Para Circuit 2025, anticipating an inspiring season where future champions will rise across Future, Challenger, and Elite tiers.