Alex Lanier Triumphs at Home as Popov Brothers Dominate Doubles at 2026 French Badminton Championships

The 2026 French Badminton Championships concluded on February 8 at the Palais des Sports de Caen with notable performances and thrilling matches. Alex Lanier, competing in his hometown area of Dives-sur-Mer, retained his men's singles title by defeating Christo Popov decisively with scores of 21-15, 21-12. Lanier’s win reinforced his position among France’s elite badminton players and was particularly celebrated given the local setting of the tournament.

In men's doubles, the remarkable Popov brothers, Christo and Toma Junior, continued their dominance by securing their third consecutive national championship, overcoming the duo Adam and Rossi 21-12, 21-15. Despite Christo Popov's singles final loss to Lanier, the brothers expressed optimism and joy about their performance and look ahead to the European Team Championships in Istanbul.

The Badminton Club Fos also delivered impressively, collecting a total of five medals: three silver and two bronze. Elsa Jacob and Kathell Desmots-Chacun earned silver medals in women’s and mixed doubles respectively, while Christo Popov added another silver in the singles category. This haul affirmed Fos-sur-Mer's status as a powerhouse in French badminton.

In women's singles, Strasbourg's Rosy Pancasari celebrated her first French championship title by defeating Romane Cloteaux-Foucault 21-15, 21-17 in a competitive final. Athletes from the event are now preparing for the European Championships scheduled from February 11 to 15 in Istanbul, Turkey.