Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Organizers Deny Responsibility for Asian Games Mishaps
The Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games organizers denied responsibility for widespread complaints about athlete accommodations, food, and transportation, instead blaming teams for incomplete documentation during the games in Japan.
The organizing committee for the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games has denied responsibility for various failures during the 20th Asian Games, instead blaming teams for incomplete documentation. The games have drawn widespread media and social media criticism over accommodation, food, beverages, and delayed transportation systems. On September 22, organizers issued a statement titled "Regarding Reports on Accommodation, Food, and Beverages for Athletes at the 20th Asian Games" to refute the allegations.
The statement denied responsibility for delays affecting Thailand's sepak takraw team's check-in at the Costa Serena cruise ship on September 16, citing incomplete advance registration by teams. "We understand there were deficiencies in documents submitted by some teams, and addressing these issues takes time," organizers said, noting that Costa Serena's system works with JTB Corporation and placing primary responsibility on the teams.
Regarding food criticized by Thai media for tecball athletes, organizers stated the meals were not provided by AINAGOC. On the matter of the incorrectly played national anthem and transportation system problems, which did occur, the organizing committee offered a broad rebuttal, stating: "AINAGOC will sincerely listen to athletes' voices and cooperate with relevant businesses and organizations to ensure that existing accommodation and food service systems operate reliably and continuously, and will implement necessary improvements to ensure all athletes can participate in the competition with ease."
