20TH ASIAN GAMES
What Is the Asian Games?
The Asian Games are Asia's largest continental multi-sport event, bringing together athletes represented by National Olympic Committees across Asia.
The Asian Games are Asia's largest continental multi-sport event, bringing together athletes represented by National Olympic Committees across Asia.
The Olympic Council of Asia oversees the Games. The first Asian Games took place in New Delhi in 1951, and the event is normally held every four years. Its programme combines global Olympic sports with sports strongly associated with regions of Asia.
How the Asian Games work
- Purpose: Continental multi-sport competition
- Organizer: Olympic Council of Asia
- Normal cycle: Every four years
- First edition: New Delhi 1951
- Next edition: Aichi-Nagoya 2026
Quick answers
Who organizes the Asian Games?
The Olympic Council of Asia oversees the Asian Games, working with the host organizing committee and participating National Olympic Committees.
How often are the Asian Games held?
The Asian Games are normally held once every four years.
When were the first Asian Games?
The first Asian Games were held in New Delhi, India, from 4 to 11 March 1951.
Who participates in the Asian Games?
Athletes participate through Asian National Olympic Committees representing countries and regions.
How are the Asian Games different from the Olympic Games?
The Asian Games are a continental event for Asian NOCs and include Olympic sports alongside regional sports such as kabaddi, sepak takraw and wushu.
When are the next Asian Games?
The 20th Asian Games are scheduled in Aichi and Nagoya, Japan, from 19 September to 4 October 2026.