BWF News

Poul Erik Høyer to Be Inducted into BWF Hall of Fame as Administrator

TEXT BY BWF STAFF

BWF will induct former President and Honorary Life Vice President Poul‑Erik Høyer into the BWF Hall of Fame in the Administrator Category, recognising his outstanding service and exceptional contributions to the governance and global development of badminton. The induction ceremony will take place during the BWF Annual General Meeting on 25 April 2026.

The BWF Hall of Fame is the Federation’s highest honour. Under BWF Award Regulations, induction in the Administrator Category is conferred only on rare occasions to individuals whose leadership has had a profound and lasting impact on the sport. The most recent administrator inducted was former BWF President Madame Lu Sheng Rong in 2008. The administrator list also includes Sir Craig Reedie, who recently passed away at the age of 84.

While Høyer had a long and accomplished playing career, his induction recognises his exceptional achievements as an administrator and leader of the sport.

Høyer served 12 years as BWF President.

Elected as the 19th President of BWF in 2013, Høyer served 12 years in office, the second‑longest presidential tenure in the Federation’s 92‑year history. He was reelected unopposed in 2017 and 2021, reflecting the confidence of the global badminton membership in his leadership and vision.

As Chair of Council, Høyer oversaw a period of significant organisational and commercial growth, strengthening tournament presentation, commercial value, global partnerships and governance standards – foundations that continue to support the Federation today.

Prior to his BWF presidency, Høyer held senior leadership roles at continental and national levels, serving as President of Badminton Europe (2010–2013) and as Deputy Chair of Badminton Denmark (2005–2010).

Before entering administration, Høyer reached the pinnacle of competitive badminton. An Olympic gold medallist in men’s singles at the Atlanta 1996 Olympic Games, he was among the leading players of his generation, winning three European Championship titles and two All England crowns – experience that brought valuable perspective and credibility to his later leadership roles.

Throughout his presidency, Høyer was a strong advocate for BWF development initiatives and a committed supporter of the Federation’s vision of “giving every child a chance to play badminton for life”. His emphasis on inclusion, opportunity and integrity helped shape BWF into a stronger and more respected international federation.

Høyer also played an important role in strengthening BWF’s relationships with global stakeholders, particularly the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and the International Paralympic Committee (IPC). His service as an IOC Member from 2014 to 2022 further enhanced the Federation’s standing within the Olympic Movement.

Høyer’s forthcoming induction into the BWF Hall of Fame in the Administrator Category formally recognises his enduring impact on the sport and his leadership at the highest level of international badminton.