[PHOTOS] Baton passes to Qatar: The road to 2030 Asian Games begins

The 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games concluded with a grand closing ceremony at the Paloma Mizuho Stadium in Nagoya, Japan on October 4. The event marked the transition of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) flag to Qatar, with equestrian Jassim Al Kuwari bearing the flag during the ceremony at the Nagoya City Mizuho Park Athletic Stadium.

The torch of the first-ever Asian Games, symbolizing the opening of this significant sports event, was held by the Olympic Council of Asia President Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani. Post-ceremony, the flame was extinguished, signifying the end of the games.

The atmosphere was charged with cultural performances, featuring dancers and performers dressed in traditional attire. The stage was set with a show of unity, as South Korean athletes were seen enjoying the festivities alongside North Korean athletes, who were present at the closing ceremony in Nagoya.

The event was lavishly concluded with a spectacular fireworks display, lighting up the night sky over Paloma Mizuho Stadium. The 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games thus came to a close, marking the beginning of a new era in Asian sports under the stewardship of Qatar.