Great Britain Para Table Tennis Team Prepares for World Championships with Training Camp in France

The Great Britain Para Table Tennis team has announced a 12-athlete squad for the ITTF World Para Elite event in Yvelines, France, from September 12-16. This is the final preparation step before the 2026 World Para Table Tennis Championships in Thailand this November. Interim Performance Director Shaun Marples said: 'This is a valuable opportunity for athletes to gain match practice against strong opponents and improve their world ranking and seeding for the World Championships.' The team had a productive summer training camp in Sheffield, receiving positive feedback. Among the 12 athletes, the most notable are world champion Will Bayley (class 7) and European champion Rob Davies (class 1). Young talents like Bly Twomey (class 7) and Billy Shilton (class 8) are also included, showing a blend of experience and potential. The France event is not a qualifier but a chance to optimise rankings and test tactics. Marples emphasised: 'We've had a quality summer of training. Now it's time to convert that into results on the table.' While lacking detailed tactical or technical information, this article provides valuable insight into the preparation of one of the world's strongest para teams. The reliance on veteran stars Bayley and Davies is a potential risk, but giving opportunities to younger athletes indicates long-term planning by Table Tennis England. Watching the results in France will be a key indicator for form in Thailand this November.