Asian Games 2026: Indian contingent gets grand send-off
(Courtesy : Indian Olympic Association)
The Games are scheduled to run from September 19 to October 4
On Tuesday, the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) held a special send-off for India’s contingent for the Asian Games 2026, as the country’s athletes prepare to represent the nation at the continental sporting showpiece in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, from September 19 to October 4.
The ceremony brought together athletes, coaches, support staff, dignitaries, and partners as Team India embarks on its Asian Games campaign, aiming to deliver strong performances on the continental stage.
The event was attended by Dr Mansukh Mandaviya — Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports and Dr PT Usha — Indian Olympic Association President, along with athletes, coaches, support staff, and partners.
“No shortage of talent in this country”
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Speaking on the occasion, Dr Mandaviya said, “There is no shortage of talent in this country. Day by day, year by year, we are moving forward, and we have to change the pressure into performance, the opponent into an opportunity, and the opportunity into an achievement. I have complete faith that our contingent will perform well at the Asian Games and increase the pride of the country.”
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Adding to the same, Dr Usha said, “Do not be overwhelmed by the occasion; make the occasion remember you. Look at yourself and remember how far you have come. You have earned your place among the best in Asia.”
“Don’t carry the weight of expectations; carry the strength of them. Go out there, enjoy the competition, and give everything you have. Go with confidence, courage, humility and the belief that you can compete with anyone in Asia,” she noted.
A key highlight of the send-off ceremony was a panel discussion featuring Olympic medallists Swapnil Kusale, Commonwealth Games gold medallist Asmita Dey, Commonwealth Games medallist and weightlifter Gyaneshwari Yadav and kabaddi star Pawan Sehrawat.
Speaking about participating in the Asian Games, Judoka star Asmita said, “The Asian Games are very tough. Judo itself comes from Japan, and there are judo masters in my weight category, players ranked seventh, eighth, and 14th in the world. To win this medal, I’ll have to prepare like never before and be ready to defeat every one of them.”
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Building on historic 107 medals in 2023
The Asian Games 2026 will see Indian athletes compete across a wide range of disciplines against the continent’s strongest sporting nations.
Building on the country’s historic performance at the 2023 Asian Games, where India secured 107 medals, the IOA and the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports have expressed confidence that this year’s contingent is well-prepared to add to that legacy and return with pride for the nation.
How many Indian athletes are going to Asian Games 2026?
A total of 503 Indian athletes are headed to Asian Games 2026.
When do the Asian Games 2026 start?
The Asian Games 2026 are running from September 19 to October 4 in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan.
Where to watch the Asian Games 2026 in India?
The Asian Games 2026 will be aired on Sony Sports Network channels and streamed on Sony LIV.
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