The Olympic Council of Asia expressed deep concern over the ongoing Middle East conflict on March 4, 2026, and prioritised athlete safety in preparations for the 2026 Asian Games. In a statement, President Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani called for de-escalation, civilian protection and dialogue as the body stayed in contact with national Olympic committees and event organisers. The remarks followed a coordination committee meeting for the Aichi-Nagoya Games held in Japan days earlier.
The statement released by the Olympic Council of Asia highlighted the impact of the conflict on athletes and communities across the region. “Our thoughts are with the families and communities affected,” the statement read. “During this uncertain time, we call for de-escalation, the protection of civilians, and a swift return to stability.” “Dialogue and safety must remain top priorities,” it added. The OCA was founded on the principle of unity, a value it said holds greater importance now than ever.
According to the Arab Times report of the OCA announcement, the council confirmed it remains in close contact with National Olympic Committees and the organizing committees of the upcoming 2026 Games. Ensuring the safety and well-being of athletes and the broader Asian Olympic movement remains its highest priority. The Coordination and Follow-up Committee for the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games concluded its meetings in Nagoya, Japan, on March 2-3. This reflects the OCA’s commitment to careful monitoring and responsible planning despite regional uncertainties.
The Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games are scheduled to run from September 19 to October 4, 2026, and are expected to feature more than 10,000 athletes from across the continent. The event will include 41 sports, 68 disciplines and 460 events as approved by the OCA Executive Board in July 2025. Organisers have been advancing preparations through multiple coordination meetings with the OCA. The games come under the slogan “Imagine One Asia.”
Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani was elected president of the OCA on January 26, 2026. In his vision titled “Together for Asia,” he committed to positioning sport as a universal language of peace, mutual respect and cultural understanding. The president also serves as head of the Qatar Olympic Committee. His election occurred at the 46th OCA General Assembly.
The OCA maintains 45 member National Olympic Committees. It has continued communication with these bodies regarding the impact of the regional situation on sports events. The Asian Beach Games took place in Sanya, China, from April 22 to 30, 2026, involving more than 1,600 athletes from 45 nations. The OCA has proposed adjustments to the schedule of future editions of the Asian Games to align them with the Olympic cycle.
A report on March 8 indicated the OCA was monitoring airspace closures and the worsening crisis in the Middle East. The council has continued to review preparations for all its events through follow-up meetings. The 20th Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya will proceed as scheduled despite the uncertainties.
