Flag hoisting at Asiad: Countries, including India, complete ceremony after delay and disruption
The flag hoisting ceremony for the Asian Games in Nagoya faced significant delays and logistical disruptions, causing confusion among participating nations including India. Organizers cited poor communication between the Olympic Council of Asia and the local committee as the primary cause for the chaos.
Why it matters
Logistical failures at major international sporting events can impact the reputation of host cities and the experience of participating national delegations.
The traditional flag hoisting ceremony at the Asian Games, involving India among others, was first delayed, then disrupted before finally taking place on Friday (September 18, 2026) following the resolution of an unspecified "trouble" by the organisers, who are facing heavy criticism for the logistical chaos in Nagoya.
India's chef-de-mission Sahdev Yadav, four deputy chef-de-missions A. Sharath Kamal, Lijo David Thottan, Alaknanda Ashok and Anjali Bhagwat were present for the ceremony at Garden Pier which is located close to the container-style lodging for the athletes.
"We are sorry for the delay. There is some trouble with a team. We will try to restore in another 15 minutes," read a statement from the local organisers.
The disruption eventually lasted over one hour and the organisers said it was actually a case of lack of communication without getting into the details.
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