Asian Games 2026 in Aichi-Nagoya differ from Olympics in geography, sports programme and regional identity

Key facts

• The 2026 Asian Games, officially known as Aichi-Nagoya 2026, will be held in Japan's Aichi Prefecture with Nagoya as the main hub from September 19 to October 4.
• More than 11,000 athletes from 45 countries are expected to compete in the 2026 Asian Games.
• The Asian Games are the largest multi-sport event in Asia, held every four years and organised by the Olympic Council of Asia.
• Unlike the Olympics, the Asian Games are a continental competition open only to nations from Asia.
• Aichi-Nagoya 2026 will feature 43 sports, 71 disciplines and 469 events.
• Cricket, which is not an Olympic mainstay, will be played at the 2026 Asian Games and provides India with a major medal opportunity.
• The 2026 Asian Games are expected to offer 1,407 medals across 469 events.
• The Asian Games are built around a strong Asian regional identity, bringing together countries with different sporting cultures, economies and political systems.
• By the July deadline, more than 17,000 athletes and officials had registered for the event.