Japan lights the 2026 Asian Games flame

The flame for the 2026 Asian Games was lit at the National Stadium in the Japanese capital, Tokyo, on Tuesday, marking the start of Japan’s countdown to the 20th edition of the continental sporting event, scheduled to take place in Nagoya and the Aichi region from September 19 to October 4 next year.

Japanese runner Yoshihide Kiryu ignited the flame at the stadium that hosted the 2021 Olympics, emphasizing that the tournament will provide athletes and fans with a long-awaited moment of joy, and stressing that cheers from supporters give players additional strength. A similar ceremony is scheduled to take place in Hiroshima next Thursday, before the two flames converge in Nagoya on Saturday, officially launching the torch relay.

Japan is preparing to host approximately 15,000 athletes and officials at this event, which exceeds the scale of the Olympic Games. It will feature a number of rising talents, including Filipino tennis star Alexandra Eala, 15-year-old Indian cricketer Vaibhav Suryabanshi, and 13-year-old Chinese swimmer Yu Zidi. Athletes will be accommodated in various locations, including a cruise ship moored during the competition period.