Record Team, Chile Qualifies for 2026 Para Table Tennis World Championships

Chile's Para Table Tennis team is set to make history at the 2026 World Championships, qualifying with a record-breaking delegation of eight athletes. The Federación Internacional de Tenis de Mesa (ITTF) confirmed the roster, solidifying Chile's status as a formidable force in the sport across the Americas. The athletes earned their places via continental competitions and their standing in the ITTF world rankings, showcasing a sustained period of success for the national program.

Among those who secured spots through the world rankings are Ignacio Torres (world No. 1, class 6), Manuel Echaveguren (No. 6, class 10), Florencia Pérez (No. 4, class 8), Matías Pino (No. 6, class 6), and Claudio Bahamondes (No. 8, class 7). They are joined by medalists from the São Paulo 2025 Parapan American Games: Luis Flores (No. 5, class 2), Tamara Leonelli (No. 5, class 5), and Vicente Leiva (No. 116, class 1). This diverse group will compete in individual, men's doubles, and mixed doubles events.

The championship, scheduled from November 23 to 29 in Pattaya, Thailand, will host 330 athletes. Chile's previous best performance at the World Championships was reaching the quarterfinals in both 2018 and 2022. Head Coach Francisco Carrasco expressed optimism, stating, "We are going with real chances of returning to the country with medals. Having eight athletes within the world's Top 10 reflects sustained work, with a world-class training center, a consolidated technical team, and the necessary support to compete internationally."

Ignacio Torres, the world's top-ranked player in class 6, highlighted the collective effort behind this achievement. "Having a large delegation speaks to the commitment of the athletes, the support from the Chilean Paralympic Committee, the Table Tennis Federation, the IND, and everyone who contributes to our development," he said. The significant regional representation, with six of the eight qualifiers hailing from outside the capital, was also noted. Tamara Leonelli, from Temuco, emphasized this progress, stating, "Going with a record team and with real possibilities of competing for medals demonstrates the progressive advancement."