Table Tennis England President Jill Parker MBE was invited to conduct the draw alongside the event referee.
Reigning champions China have been drawn alongside host nation, England, five-time winners Sweden and Korea in Group 1 of the ITTF World Team Table Tennis Championships Finals to take place in London from April 28.
Undisputed winners of the last 11 editions, China will face stiff competition in what promises to be a highly competitive group.
The draw for the championships took place last night at The Shard, setting the stage for a historic celebration of 100 years of World Championships.
France, the silver medallists at the last edition, will face Japan, Germany and Chinese Taipei in Group 2 as they bid to lift the Swaythling Cup for the first time.
In the women’s competition, hosts England were drawn alongside Japan, Germany and France in Group 2. China, 23-time Corbillon Cup winners, headline Group 1 where they will meet Korea Republic, Chinese Taipei and five-time champions Romania.
“From London to London, we have come full circle,” said ITTF President Petra Sörling.
“England has hosted the World Championships on seven occasions, but returning to where it all began makes this centenary edition truly special. This event is already historic, but I am confident it will also be unforgettable.”
The top eight seeds in each competition will contest Stage 1a at OVO Arena Wembley on 2-3 May, with all teams progressing to Stage 2. Their group performances will determine their seedings for the knockout rounds.
Stage 1b takes place at the Copper Box Arena from 28 April to 1 May, where 56 teams in each competition will battle for the remaining 24 places in the Main Draw.
London 2026 marks 100 years since the first World Championships were held in the same city in 1926, making this the most significant edition in the event’s history.
