Nagoya mayor says sorry for Asian Games 'inconveniences'

In a bid to mollify athletes affected by the Asian Games inconveniences, Nagoya's mayor, Ichiro Hirosawa, issued an apology on Wednesday. The mayor, who also serves as the acting chairman of the local organizing committee, acknowledged the multitude of problems that beset the event. With over 17,000 athletes and officials participating in what is the continent's largest sporting event, issues ranging from bed shortages to transport glitches have surfaced. Countries involved have accused local organizers of mismanagement.

Expressing sincere regret, Hirosawa emphasized the need to thoroughly reflect on the issues that arose during the Games. He pointed out instances of human errors and inadequate communication with national teams. The mayor clarified that the mishaps were addressed post hoc.

Unlike previous Games, there was no athletes' village due to cost-cutting measures. Participants were accommodated in temporary wooden units, a cruise ship, and various hotels. Some teams have voiced dissatisfaction with the temporary cabins, claiming the beds are insufficiently long. Early in the Games, the local organizers apologized to South Korea after the North Korean national anthem was mistakely played.

Athletes have also faced transportation issues, with some buses failing to arrive on schedule, not reaching their destinations, or arriving at the incorrect venues. Some athletes even found themselves stranded at the airport for hours upon arrival in Nagoya on September 19, the day the Games commenced. The event, held in Nagoya and Aichi prefecture, is set to conclude on Sunday.