Countdown Begins as Aichi-Nagoya Prepares to Host the 20th Asian Games

With one month remaining until the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games, anticipation is building across the continent as Japan prepares to host Asia’s largest multi-sport event from September 19 to October 4.

More than 11,000 athletes and 6,000 officials from 45 countries will come together in Japan for 16 days of competition, featuring 43 sports and 71 disciplines across 469 events. A total of 1,407 medals will be awarded, setting the stage for a major celebration of Asian sporting talent.

Aichi-Nagoya 2026 marks the third time Japan has hosted the Asian Games, following Tokyo in 1958 and Hiroshima in 1994. Operating under the official motto “Imagine One Asia”, the Games aim to unite the continent’s diverse nations through sport while inspiring a new generation of athletes and fans.

Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) President Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani stated that Japan’s experience hosting major international sporting events would help set a new benchmark for the Asian Games.

“Representing the largest and most diverse continent within the Olympic family, these Games embody the true power, solidarity and shared vision of uniting Asia as one,” said OCA President Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani. “Japan has a world-class track record in hosting major sporting events and I have no doubt that Aichi-Nagoya 2026 will set a benchmark for future editions – empowering our youth and inspiring the next generation of Asian sport.”

The scale of the Games extends beyond the competition venues, with 10,200 volunteers supporting the event and 5,300 accredited media representatives expected to cover the action. Hundreds of millions of fans worldwide are also expected to follow the coverage.

OCA Director General Husain Al-Musallam praised Japan’s preparations and highlighted the wider legacy of the event, noting that the Games would create lasting memories while forging friendships, promoting peace through diversity, and strengthening connections across Asia.

The countdown will officially conclude with the Opening Ceremony on September 19, leading into competitions that run until October 4. As athletes, officials, volunteers, and fans prepare to converge on Japan, Aichi-Nagoya 2026 is poised to showcase the strength and diversity of Asian sport.