Japan kicks off the 2026 Asian Games across Aichi, Nagoya and beyond
The 2026 Asian Games opened on Saturday, marking Japan's first time hosting the event since 1994 and featuring athletes from 45 nations in 43 sports.
The quadrennial Asian Games began in Aichi Prefecture, with competitions spread across Nagoya, Shizuoka, Gifu, Tokyo and Osaka. Over 17,000 athletes and officials are taking part, representing 45 countries and regions. Several events, such as hockey, surfing and squash, double as qualifiers for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The Olympic Council of Asia confirmed the scale and schedule of the games.
Why it matters
The games bring together thousands of athletes, serve as Olympic qualifiers, and highlight Japan's role in Asian sport.
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.
In this story
Asian Games 2026JapanAichi-Nagoya45 countries43 sportsOlympic qualification2028 Los Angeles Olympics17,000 athletes
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