Heusden-Zolder will become a hotspot of European badminton as the municipality prepares to proudly host the 2024 European Senior Championships from 25 to 31 August.

The brand new multidisciplinary sports complex, De Velodroom, will be the epicenter of this grand tournament, marking a historic sports occasion for the Royal Belgian Badminton Federation and the province of Limburg.

Located in the easternmost province of Flanders, Heusden-Zolder welcomes a tournament of unprecedented scale. The remarkable De Velodroom will play host to at least 1,300 participants from across Europe, transforming Limburg into an international badminton hotspot for an entire week.

Mayor Mario Borremans, expressing enthusiasm for this prestigious event, stated to Badminton Vlaanderen, “As a sports-oriented municipality, we are delighted to wholeheartedly support this European championship. The Velodrome is more than ever the perfect choice for a sports event of this caliber. The decision to come to Heusden-Zolder signifies confidence in terms of logistics, organisation, and sports expertise, allowing the championship to unfold in just one year. As the mayor, I am already looking forward to welcoming and showcasing our hospitality to over 1,300 participants from across Europe.”

The officialisation of Belgium's hosting role was solidified through the signing of the contract with Badminton Europe. ”I think it is quite exclusive to sign a contract within your own country and especially with the Royal Belgian Badminton Federation that I was leading for the last 7 years,” said BEC President Sven Serré. “The local organizer Smash BC in Heusden-Zolder is preparing by excellence these European Seniors and it will be a great experience in the green province of Limburg.”

Co-chairman of the Royal Belgian Badminton Federation, Bert Vanhorenbeeck, emphasised the significance of the event, stating to Badminton Vlaanderen, ”With the 75th anniversary of badminton in Belgium in 2024, this European Championship is the icing on the cake. Additionally, this event is an excellent opportunity to promote the sport of badminton in Belgium.”

The collaborative efforts of the municipality of Heusden-Zolder, the Royal Belgian Badminton Federation, Badminton Europe, and Badminton Club Smash have laid the foundation for an unforgettable championship.