Asian Games 2026 open in Nagoya with spectacular opening ceremony
The 20th Asian Games have officially commenced in Nagoya, Japan, with a high-tech opening ceremony at Mizuho Park Athletic Stadium. Over 11,000 athletes from 45 nations will compete across 43 events for 469 gold medals through October 4.
Why it matters
As one of the world's largest multi-sport events, the Asian Games serve as a major indicator of regional sporting dominance and diplomatic engagement in Asia.
The 20th Asian Games officially began in Nagoya on Saturday with a colourful and high-tech opening ceremony at the Mizuho Park Athletic Stadium.Japan’s Emperor Naruhito officially declared the Games open in the presence of Empress Masako, members of the Japanese imperial family, Olympic Council of Asia president Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani and International Olympic Committee president Kirsty Coventry.Ceremony begins with Japanese national anthemThe two-hour ceremony began with the Japanese national anthem, followed by the raising of the national flag.Nine members of the Japanese Self-Defence Forces carried the flag onto the stage before it was hoisted.
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