NAGOYA, Japan — The heart of Asia will pulsate with energy as athletes from around the world come together to compete at Asian Games 2026. The event, to be held from September 19 to October 4, will showcase the continent’s prowess in a multitude of sports at venues across Aichi Prefecture, with the city of Nagoya serving as its epicenter.
The Sports Ministry announced stringent new criteria for the selection of athletes to take part in the multidisciplinary competition, saying only those with “real chance of winning medals” will be considered. It also barred the inclusion of additional sportspersons, coaches and support staff, even if they are willing to pay their own expenses, in an effort to address recurring disputes over such matters.
Those selected will be required to rank at the top two in championships where a team event is involved, or finish in the top four for those with six or more teams. This is in addition to a top-two or top-four finish at an Asian Championships competition, recognised by the International Federation for that sport.
Aichi-Nagoya is well-equipped to host the Games, with a comprehensive transportation network including JR lines (Tokaido Shinkansen, Chuo Main Line, etc), Kintetsu Railway, Meitetsu Railway and private bus companies operating throughout the area. Shuttle buses will be available to aid movement to the competition sites from transport stations, and measures to curb private car use in areas surrounding the venues will also be introduced.