Seiko Hashimoto, the chief of the Japanese Olympic Committee, admitted that many of the aspects of the recently-concluded 2026 Asian Games could have been done better in hindsight. The games, held at Aichi-Nagoya, were marred by several organisational and logistical issues, which included athletes’ long waits for transports, delegations being taken to the wrong venues, playing of the wrong national anthems and more.

“We also received harsh criticism because of the challenges we faced, and I am fully aware of that,” Hashimoto said while speaking on the learnings from hosting the 2026 Asian Games.

The games have been called as a “great learning” for the country as it prepares to host other mega events. However, several contingents pointed out issues, including staying in uncomfortable accommodations, with some of them even flooded owing to heavy rains. The Indian shooting team as well as the Chinese contingent were reportedly kept waiting at the airport for several hours owing to certain data entry issues.

Japan had taken the unusual decision of not organising an Athletes’ Village for the 2026 Asian Games. Usually, all participating nations stay at this common village during the event. But to avoid the hefty construction cost of such a village, competitors and other members of delegations stayed at a luxury cruise ship and various hotels and container homes during the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games.

While some of the delegations lauded the hospitality of volunteers, others praised the stay at the luxury ship, saying that it was a good experience, adding that the food was of top-notch quality. However, others said they faced challenges. There were delays in conducting the welcome ceremony as well.

The 2026 edition has served as a learning for the organisers as Japan now understands better about the kind of compromises it needs to make and those it shouldn’t, to host mega events in the future.

Written by

Lakshya