Olympic Council of Asia president says politics have already entered into the Asian Games
The president of the Olympic Council of Asia expressed frustration that political tensions have infiltrated the Asian Games following an incident involving a Taiwanese official. The incident highlights the ongoing challenges of managing geopolitical sensitivities in international sporting events.
Why it matters
This underscores the difficulty of maintaining the 'apolitical' nature of international sports when faced with complex territorial and diplomatic disputes.
The president of the Olympic Council of Asia acknowledged on Saturday (September 19, 2026) that politics — in the form of a welcoming ceremony involving Taiwan — had already entered into the Asian Games.
He did not sound pleased about it, speaking just hours before the official opening ceremony on Saturday (September 19, 2026).
Some events at the Asian Games began several days ago to accommodate a packed schedule and more than 17,000 athletes and officials. Up to 5,000 are housed on a cruise ship.
“I don't think, you know, the politicians or politics should be involved in sports,” said Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, speaking with media at the Asian Games.
He is the younger brother of the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Al Thani.
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