HE Sheikh Joaan: Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games Embody Vision of Uniting Asia

HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al-Thani, President of the Olympic Council of Asia and President of the Qatar Olympic Committee, said the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games reflect the strength, solidarity and shared vision of bringing the Asian continent together.

His comments came as the Olympic Council of Asia and the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games Organising Committee mark one month to go until the Games, which will take place in Japan from September 19 to October 4, 2026.

HE Sheikh Joaan described Asia as the largest and most diverse continent within the international Olympic movement and said the Games would showcase that diversity while uniting the continent through sport.

He also highlighted Japan's record of hosting major international sporting events, expressing confidence that Aichi-Nagoya 2026 would set a benchmark for future editions while empowering young people and inspiring the next generation of Asian athletes.

More than 11,000 athletes and 6,000 officials from 45 countries are expected to take part in 16 days of competition.

The Games will feature 43 sports and 71 disciplines, with 1,407 medals to be awarded across 469 events.

Aichi-Nagoya 2026 will mark the third time Japan has hosted the Asian Games, following Tokyo in 1958 and Hiroshima in 1994.

The Games will be staged under the official motto "Imagine One Asia" and will be supported by 10,200 volunteers, while 5,300 accredited media representatives are expected to cover the event.

OCA Director General Husain Al-Musallam thanked organisers in Japan for their preparations and said the Games would create lasting memories, strengthen friendships through sport and promote peace through Asia's diversity.

The Opening Ceremony will take place on September 19, with the Closing Ceremony scheduled for October 4.

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