Nagoya Mayor says sorry for Asian Games 'inconveniences'
Nagoya Mayor Ichiro Hirosawa has apologized for various logistical failures at the 2026 Asian Games, including transport issues and inadequate athlete accommodations. The event has faced criticism for mismanagement and poor communication with participating national teams.
Why it matters
The mismanagement of a major international sporting event reflects on the host city's organizational capacity and impacts the experience of thousands of athletes.
Nagoya's Mayor apologised to athletes on Wednesday (September 30, 2026) for "inconveniences" at the Asian Games in the Japanese city following a string of complaints.
The continent's biggest sporting event has been dogged by problems including a shortage of beds and issues with transport.
There are over 17,000 athletes and officials, more than the Olympics, and countries have accused local organisers of mismanagement.
"We must offer our apologies to the athletes and others affected by these inconveniences," said Mayor Ichiro Hirosawa, who is also acting chairman of the local organising committee.
"We must sincerely reflect on the mishandling that occurred," he added.
"There were human errors and a lack of communication with the national teams.
"We are responding based on what has happened."
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