Asian Games Shift to Odd-Numbered Years – New Prep Tournament Format Before Olympics
The Asian Games may shift to odd-numbered years starting in 2031 to serve as a final warm-up tournament before the Summer Olympics, with Qatar and Saudi Arabia adjusting their hosting schedules accordingly.
Reports indicate the Asian Games may be rescheduled from even-numbered to odd-numbered years starting in 2031 to serve as a final preparatory tournament before the Summer Olympics. The Asian Games are traditionally held every four years, with this year's competition taking place in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan from September 19 to October 4.
According to Inside the Games, the Olympic Council of Asia is seriously discussing restructuring the Asian Games schedule to occur in odd-numbered years. Qatar's Games, originally scheduled for 2030, would move to 2031, while Saudi Arabia's Games would shift from 2035 to 2036. This proposed change aims to position the Asian Games as a final preparation venue before the Summer Olympics, allowing athletes to fine-tune their performance in a high-level competitive environment. If implemented, the Asian Games would occur in 2031 with the Summer Olympics following in 2032, hosted by Australia.
Similar formats have already been adopted by other continental sports competitions, including the Pan American Games, European Games, and African Games, all held in the year preceding the Olympics. This proposal also reflects broader concerns about crowded sports calendars, as even-numbered years already host numerous major international events such as the Winter Olympics, FIFA World Cup, and various world championships across different sports.
