# Asian Games Open with More Athletes Than Olympics

> Asian Games open with 17,000 athletes, but logistical chaos and weather threats disrupt event.
- Title: Asian Games Open with More Athletes Than Olympics · Malay Mail
- Summary: Asian Games open with 17,000 athletes, but logistical chaos and weather threats disrupt event. The 2026 Asian Games in Japan feature over 17,000 athletes…
- Keywords: asian games, nagoya, japan, olympics, athletes, logistics, weather, 2026, triathlon, esports, bmx cycling, kabaddi
- Source: Malay Mail — https://malaymail.com/news/sports/2026/09/19/more-athletes-than-the-olympics-but-plenty-of-problems-as-asian-games-open-in-japan/235766
- Published: 2026-09-19T15:18:25+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: asian games, nagoya, japan, olympics, athletes, logistics, weather, 2026, triathlon, esports, bmx cycling, kabaddi
## Asian Games open in Japan
The 20th Asian Games open in Nagoya, Japan with 17,000 athletes, more than the Olympics.
## Logistical challenges
Organizers face no traditional athletes' village, using temporary containers, hotels, and a cruise ship for accommodation.
## Weather disruptions
Record flooding in Nagoya and a tropical storm threaten further disruptions on Sunday and Monday.
## Athlete issues
Some athletes stranded at airports, teams complain about hut quality, including short beds.
## North Korea anthem incident
North Korea’s national anthem played for South Korea’s men’s hockey team during the Games.
## India’s flag-bearer change
India drafted in new flag-bearer Pawan Sehrawat after Tajinderpal Singh Toor’s luggage lacked ceremonial kit.
## Olympic-bound competitions
The Games feature 2028 Olympics places in seven sports and 468 gold medals across 40+ sports.
## Emerging talents
15-year-old Indian cricketer Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and 13-year-old Chinese swimmer Yu Zidi compete.
## China’s medal focus
China aims to top medals with 800 athletes, including 36 Olympic champions, after winning 201 golds in Hangzhou.
## Key takeaway

The 2026 Asian Games in Japan feature over 17,000 athletes, exceeding Olympic numbers, but face logistical issues and weather disruptions.