The Asian Games 2026 are set to take place from September 19 to October 4 in Aichi Prefecture and Nagoya. They are the next big event in the world of sport after the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics. The Asian Games are a great opportunity to spread Japan’s sporting culture to the rest of Asia and bring people together through sports.

This is the first time the Games have been held since the pandemic-delayed Hangzhou edition in 2023, with organisers hoping to deliver a high-quality event that will leave a lasting legacy for athletes and fans alike. Preparations for the Games are progressing well, with venues spread across the Aichi and Central Japan areas.

Athletes from across the region will compete in a range of sports, including unique Asian events such as kabaddi and sepak takraw alongside Olympic disciplines like athletics and swimming. Mixed martial arts and esports will make their debut, while cricket is retained following its runaway success in Hangzhou.

It’s also the first Asian Games to be held under the new OCA rules. The strict new selection criteria mean only athletes with a “real chance of medalling” will be considered for nomination by their national sports federations. The rules were tightened to prevent countries from bringing in extra coaches and support staff to boost their chances of winning medals.

The Games were first held in 1951, shortly after the end of World War II, with the aim of fostering friendship through sports and contributing to regional peace. They are held every four years and include 45 member nations. The ambiguous political status of Taiwan, Palestine, and Hong Kong means they cannot officially join the OCA, but they are allowed to participate in the Games under the Chinese Taipei flag.