Asian Games kick off in Nagoya with unity theme amid empty seats and logistical woes
The 20th Asian Games opened in Nagoya with a message of Asian unity, but the opening ceremony was marked by many vacant seats and a series of organisational challenges.
The 20th Asian Games launched in Nagoya with a colourful ceremony centered on a giant heart stage, aiming to showcase Asian solidarity. The Japanese Emperor and Empress were seated alongside International Olympic Committee president Kirsty Coventry. Despite the fanfare, the 30,000-capacity venue displayed numerous empty seats, contradicting claims that all tickets were sold.
Over 11,000 athletes and 6,000 officials were housed in temporary container huts, hotels and the cruise liner Costa Serena, prompting complaints about cramped conditions. Recent heavy rains flooded parts of Nagoya and a looming typhoon threatens further disruption. An anthem error played North Korea's song for South Korea's men's hockey team, highlighting the event's organisational strain. Competitions across more than 40 sports, including debut events like padel and MMA, will run until October 4, with the first gold expected in the men's triathlon.
Why it matters
The opening highlights both the symbolic push for Asian unity and the practical challenges of staging a major multi-sport event.
How this story developed
- Sep 9 Malaysia monitors flood risks as Asian Games kick off in Japan
- Sep 13 Japan raised a level‑five emergency alert following the river overflow.
- Sep 19 Mayor Ichiro Hirosawa said the conditions pose no threat to the Asian Games.
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