ASIAD 2026: Esports to depart after Japan games

The 2026 Asian Games (ASIAD) in Japan will mark the final appearance of Esports within the multi-sport event framework. Following an agreement between the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) and Kuwait, Esports will transition into a standalone competition known as the Asian Electronic and Intelligence Sports Games, expected to launch in 2027 with approximately 4,000 athletes.

Tencent, a strategic partner of the OCA, is expected to play a significant role in the technical operations of these future dedicated Esports events. This shift may impact professional organizations like Hanwha Life Esports (HLE) regarding player contract long-term stability and military service obligations in South Korea.

In competition, the Vietnamese national team is focused on medal opportunities during the 2026 games. Key areas of interest for Vietnam include sepak takraw, athletics, and shooting. Specific upcoming events include the women's sepak takraw doubles final against the Philippines and various relay finals in athletics.