OCA President Affirms 20th Asian Games "Aichi-Nagoya 2026" Will Inspire Asian Peoples

Tokyo, September 19, 2026 : HE President of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) and President of the Qatar Olympic Committee (QOC) Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani affirmed that the much-anticipated 20th Asian Games, Aichi-Nagoya 2026, will inspire the peoples of Asia in the days ahead.

Games to Showcase Power of Asian Unity

His Excellency said the Games would embody what can be achieved when Asia comes together through sport, at a time when the Asian and global spotlight is turning to the event.

Remarks Delivered at Opening Ceremony

Sheikh Joaan made the remarks during the opening ceremony at Nagoya City Mizuho Park Athletic Stadium, in the presence of Japanese Emperor Naruhito, International Olympic Committee President Kirsty Coventry, and several senior officials and sports leaders.

Gratitude Extended to Host Nation

On behalf of the OCA and the 45 National Olympic Committees, Sheikh Joaan expressed gratitude to the Government of Japan, Aichi Prefecture, Nagoya City, the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games Organizing Committee, and the Japanese Olympic Committee for their efforts in staging the Games.

Japan Praised for Excellence, Tradition

He praised Japan as a nation that prides itself on excellence, discipline, and respect, blending time-honored traditions with modern ambitions, noting that Japan has consistently stood at the forefront of world sport.

Sheikh Joaan Reflects on Personal Journey

Sheikh Joaan recalled his own journey with the Asian Games, noting that it began as a torchbearer at Doha 2006, and that 20 years later, he now stands before the Games as President of the OCA. He said that over the past two decades, he has witnessed firsthand the profound impact the Games can have.

Games Set to Feature Thousands of Athletes

Concluding his remarks, Sheikh Joaan said Japan has set the stage, and it is now Asia's time to inspire the world once again. The Aichi-Nagoya Games feature 11,000 athletes representing 45 National Olympic Committees, competing across 43 sports and 469 events, with competition continuing through October 4.

Media Briefing Held Ahead of Opening Ceremony

Earlier Saturday, Sheikh Joaan held an extensive media availability with representatives covering the Games, addressing a wide range of topics related to the event and the Asian Olympic movement, including the role of sport in fostering unity among the peoples of the continent and the importance of providing athletes with the best possible conditions to perform at their highest level.

OCA Vision for Asian Sport Outlined

His Excellency also outlined the OCA's vision for advancing sport across the continent and promoting the Asian Games as a gathering that brings together athletes from different cultures under principles of fair competition and mutual respect. The session included an open discussion, during which Sheikh Joaan answered questions on topics ranging from the Games themselves to broader issues facing Asian sport.

Commitment to National Olympic Committees Reaffirmed

He reaffirmed the OCA's determination to continue working with National Olympic Committees, sports federations, and organizing committees to serve athletes and elevate their experience throughout the Games.

Media Engagement Part of Broader OCA Strategy

The session formed part of the OCA's ongoing efforts to strengthen communication with the media, keep journalists informed of its vision, and highlight the media's role in conveying the message and values of the Asian Games to audiences across the continent and around the world. The Council also stressed the enduring importance of that connection, as the Games bring together athletes whose spirit and commitment to competition transcend cultural differences.

Source: QNA