The 20th Asian Games are officially underway in Japan’s Aichi Prefecture and its capital Nagoya, following an opening ceremony on September 19. Over the next two weeks, athletes from 45 national Olympic committees will compete for medals in 469 events across 43 sports, making this one of the largest multi-sport gatherings anywhere in the world outside the Olympics.
At a glance
- Dates: September 19 – October 4, 2026
- Host: Aichi Prefecture and Nagoya, Japan
- Scale: 43 sports, 469 medal events, 45 participating NOCs
Japan hosts again
This is the third time Japan has staged the Asian Games, following Tokyo in 1958 and Hiroshima in 1994. Organisers have leaned on existing venues across the Chūbu region, an approach designed to keep costs under control and avoid the expensive white-elephant stadiums that have burdened some previous hosts. Nagoya’s strong industrial base and transport links have made it a natural hub.
The medal race
China has topped the medal table at every edition since 1982 and arrives again as the overwhelming favourite. The more competitive battle is expected to be for second place, where hosts Japan will hope home support lifts them clear of South Korea. India, which enjoyed its best-ever Games in Hangzhou in 2023, is targeting another strong performance in athletics, shooting, wrestling and hockey.
Sports to watch
- Swimming: China’s young squad and Japan’s breaststroke specialists are expected to produce some of the fastest times of the season.
- Athletics: Sprint and distance events give Southeast Asian and Gulf-based athletes a chance to shine on a continental stage.
- Esports and breaking: Newer disciplines continue to draw younger audiences and broadcasters.
- Football and basketball: Team events remain the biggest crowd-pullers across the region.
Why the Games matter in a pre-Olympic cycle
With the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics less than two years away, many federations treat the Asian Games as a key test. For smaller nations, a single Asian Games medal can transform funding prospects; for powerhouses, the event is a chance to blood new talent under pressure.
For many athletes, an Asian Games podium is the most-watched moment of their careers back home.
We will publish a full medal-table round-up when the Games close on October 4. Follow our Sports coverage for updates.