Asian Games 2026 preparations intensify in Japan

Preparations are intensifying for the 20th Asian Games, scheduled to take place in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, from September 19 to October 4, 2026. The event is expected to host over 11,000 athletes from 45 countries competing in 43 sports.

Organizers are addressing logistical challenges regarding accommodation. Due to a projected increase in participants to 17,000, the committee is utilizing cruise ships, wooden container buildings, and hotels rather than a dedicated athletes' village to manage costs. One Italian cruise ship, the Costa Serena, has been chartered to house several thousand participants.

National teams are finalizing their rosters and training regimens. India is preparing to defend its cricket titles in both men’s and women’s categories, with the women’s squad led by Harmanpreet Kaur. In kabaddi, several players from the Kabaddi Champions League (KCL) have been selected for the Indian national team, with KCL chairman Balwan Singh serving as head coach.

Nepal is aiming for its first-ever gold medal, having previously secured three silver and 23 bronze medals. Meanwhile, South Korea is targeting a high medal count, aiming for 45 golds to secure a top-three overall finish.