In many respects, new records are being set at this PPP World Championship. One of these concerns the number of tables. Until now, the 2023 PPP World Championship in Wels, with 48 tables, had set the benchmark. This record remains unbroken as far as the maximum number of tables in a single hall is concerned. However, in terms of the total number of tables in use, the record will be raised to 90 tables this time.
In the main venue, the SwissLifeHall (formerly known as the Stadionsporthalle), there will be 40 tables arranged in five rows of eight tables each; in the nearby LSB Hall 1, there will be 18 tables; and in the slightly more distant Hockey Hall, a further 32 tables. Originally, the LSB Hall 2, with 22 tables, was also included in the plans; however, following water damage, this hall is not yet fit for use, so the plans were adjusted at an early stage to use the Hockey Hall instead.
On the first two days, featuring the group stages of the singles and doubles, all three halls and all 90 tables will be in use. On Monday, play will then take place only in the SwissLifeHall and LSB Hall 1, before the competitions on the final two days are held exclusively in the main hall. On Tuesday, all 40 tables will still be needed; on Wednesday morning (quarter-finals and semi-finals), only 24 tables will be required; and on Wednesday afternoon, for the final matches, there will be 12 tables – six for the main rounds and six for the consolation rounds.
Discussions are currently still underway regarding the provision of training opportunities. Further information on this will be provided here in good time before the tournament.