Asian Games chief defends 'functional' rooms after backlash

The chief organiser of the Asian Games in Japan has defended the functional accommodation provided for athletes despite complaints. Over 17,000 competitors and officials are expected at the continent's biggest sporting event opening on September 19 in Nagoya. Temporary accommodation options include a cruise liner, wooden containers, and hotel rooms, with about 2,000 people initially staying in the huts.

South Korean officials called the container huts "the worst ever" and criticized the beds' size. One team official opted for a hotel room after viewing the arrangement. Several countries have expressed accommodation shortages. Asian Games president, Hideaki Omura, acknowledged efforts to address individual complaints while improving issues as they arise.

He assured that safety for athletes and officials is the top priority due to ongoing typhoons and recent heavy rainfall in Nagoya. About 4,000 athletes and officials will stay on the Italian cruise ship Costa Serena. Omura hopes the Games will foster friendship among Asian nations, as seen in the friendly basketball match between Qatar and Iran.