The Asian Games is the biggest continental multi-sport event and the second largest after the Olympics, with athletes from all over Asia competing in 45 sports. It was first held in 1951, soon after World War II ended, to re-establish bonds between Asian countries broken by the conflict through sports and contribute to world peace through sport by fostering diversity. The 2026 edition will be held in the city of Nagoya and Aichi prefecture from September 19 to October 4, under the theme “Imagine One Asia.”

A total of 68 sports will be contested at the Games, including 217 men’s events, 204 women’s events and 39 mixed events. All 45 member nations of the Olympic Council of Asia are expected to send delegations.

The organisers are preparing a contingency plan to evacuate athletes in case of typhoon or tsunami, according to two senior Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) officials. The ‘floating village’ will have all the amenities provided to athletes at the Games Village, including dining halls and gymnasiums. However, the timing of the Aichi-Nagoya Games — considered the peak typhoon season — could be a challenge.

Meanwhile, the OCA Executive Board has approved an exciting sports programme for the 2026 Games at its 96th online meeting. The new and exciting sports include sport climbing and skateboarding, which made their debuts at the 18th Asian Games in Indonesia in co-host city Palembang, as well as a brand-new event for men’s judo called “breaking.” Besides, the OCA is continuing to work on adding esports to the Asian Games to celebrate the changing face of sports and its role in society.