'Find your own room': Japan says can't handle added Asian Games numbers
Organizers of the 2026 Asian Games in Japan have informed late-joining delegations that they must secure their own accommodation due to budget and space constraints. The participant count has surged to 17,000, exceeding the original capacity planned for the event.
Why it matters
The logistical failure highlights the challenges of hosting massive international sporting events and the financial strain on host cities.
There is no dedicated athletes' village, with organisers instead relying on a cruise ship, temporary wooden containers and hotels.
Participants take part in the torch lighting ceremony for the 2026 Asian Games, outside the National Stadium in Tokyo on Aug 18, 2026. (File photo: AFP/Yuichi Yamazaki)
TOKYO: Japanese organisers have told late additions to next month's Asian Games to find their own accommodation, saying they don't have the money or space to deal with ballooning participant numbers.
About 15,000 athletes and officials were initially expected at the Games, which are being held in Nagoya and the wider Aichi area from Sep 19 to Oct 4.
That was already more than the Olympics, but the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) last week put the number at 17,000, comprising 11,000 athletes and 6,000 officials.
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