Asian Games 2026 opens amid troubled build-up and complaints from athletes

The 20th Asian Games commenced in Nagoya on Saturday, with organizers facing criticism over a series of operational and logistical mishaps. The event, five years after the Tokyo Olympics saw empty venues due to COVID-19 restrictions, saw Japan welcome over 11,000 athletes from 45 nations and regions to compete for 369 gold medals in a 43-sport program.

Instead of constructing a dedicated athletes' village, organizers opted for a cost-saving approach, housing athletes in a mix of hotel rooms, temporary wooden containers, and a cruise ship docked in the bay. National team delegations, including hosts Japan, have reported issues such as mix-ups, double-bookings, and cramped living conditions.

The Olympic Council of Asia acknowledged the problems, attributing them to teething difficulties, but stressed that local authorities were resolving the issues. Despite these challenges, the opening ceremony, themed "Harmonic Heart Beat," aimed to convey Asian solidarity amidst geopolitical tensions. However, the Games have already faced incidents, with Taiwan's delegation refusing to participate in the welcoming ceremony and South Korea's men's hockey team protesting the playing of North Korea's anthem.

The first gold medal is expected on Sunday in the triathlon, with other events including traditional sports, kabaddi, sepak takraw, esports, teqball, and virtual taekwondo making their debut.