Asian Games Kick Off with Record Athletes and Unique Sports

The Asian Games open with more athletes than the Summer Olympics and unique sports like kabaddi and sepaktakraw. Discover the event's highlights.

Editorial Desk

September 19, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — NAGOYA, Japan — The Asian Games officially began Saturday in Nagoya, Japan, with a grand opening ceremony that marked the start of the 16-day multi-sport event.

Despite the official start, competition had already been underway for days, with basketball and soccer matches held before the opening. The games feature over 45 countries and regions competing in 43 sports, including traditional Olympic events and unique Asian specialties such as kurash, kabaddi, and sepaktakraw.

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The opening ceremony was attended by dignitaries including Emperor Naruhito and the president of the Olympic Council of Asia, Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani. Host Japan, with the largest delegation of 933 athletes, is expected to compete closely with China and South Korea in the medal tally.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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