Asian Games 2026 Open in Nagoya Amid Logistical Issues

The Asian Games 2026 opened in Nagoya, Japan, on Saturday, September 19, with an opening ceremony at the Paloma Mizuho Stadium. The event, which marks the 20th edition of the continental multisport competition, was preceded by organizational challenges and a last-minute change to India's flagbearer delegation. Kabaddi player Pawan Sehrawat replaced shot putter Tajinderpal Singh Toor as India's flagbearer for the ceremony, joining shooter Manu Bhaker. According to reports, Toor stated he was unable to attend because he had not received his official Games kit and could not travel from his training base in Tsukuba to Nagoya in time. He said he was only informed by the Indian Olympic Association on Friday that he had been named flagbearer. Chef de mission Sahdev Yadav confirmed the change, noting Sehrawat's experience. The opening ceremony, themed "Harmonic Heart Beat," was directed by Japanese filmmaker Yukihiko Tsutsumi. It began at 6:00 PM local time (2:30 PM IST). The Games feature more than 11,000 athletes from 45 countries competing in 43 sports.