Asian Games 2026 begin with Pakistan’s grand entry

Nagoya – The President of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, has stated that politicians should not be involved in the Asian Games, following a diplomatic incident at the recent quadrennial event. The controversy arose when Taiwan's sport minister, Lee Yang, was initially blocked from attending a flag-raising ceremony, which led to a standoff with the Taiwan delegation.

Lee was eventually allowed entry, but the ceremony took place more than an hour late. Taiwan's cabinet subsequently complained about the "unreasonable obstruction" and clarified that Lee had obtained the necessary access credentials. Sheikh Joaan, speaking at a news conference in Nagoya, emphasized that athletes should remain the focus of the Games and that politics should not play a role.

OCA Director General Husain Al-Musallam added that the flag-raising ceremony was intended for the athletes, not the delegations involved. The buildup to the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games has been marred by organizational issues, including transport and accommodation problems for athletes. Despite these challenges, Sheikh Joaan defended the local organizers, stating that they were addressing issues as they arose.

The Games, which feature a record 43 sports and 469 medal events, include the debut of "virtual" taekwondo while retaining breaking and esports. The OCA defended the size and cost-effectiveness of the program.