NAGOYA: Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) President Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani has called for sports to remain separate from political issues, saying athletes should remain at the centre of the Asian Games and receive equal rights and freedom.
His remarks came after a diplomatic dispute involving Taiwanese Sports Minister Lee Yang, a former Olympic badminton champion, who was initially prevented from attending a flag-raising ceremony during the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games. Lee was later allowed to enter, while the incident led Taiwan’s delegation to boycott the ceremony and caused it to begin more than an hour late.
OCA Says Athletes Should Remain the Focus
Sheikh Joaan said the focus of the Asian Games should be on athletes and competition rather than political matters. The OCA president also stressed the importance of ensuring equal rights and freedom for participating athletes.
OCA Director General Husain Al-Musallam said the flag-raising ceremonies were organised for participants in the Games rather than government delegations.
The OCA’s official programme confirms that team welcome ceremonies included national flag-raising and national anthems for participating National Olympic Committees.
Asian Games Face Other Organisational Issues
The Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games opened on September 19 and will run through October 4. The event features 43 sports and 469 medal events, with athletes from 45 National Olympic Committees taking part.
The Games have also faced organisational concerns, including issues related to accommodation and transportation. Organisers have acknowledged some operational challenges as they manage the large number of participating athletes and officials.
The OCA has said efforts are underway to address logistical issues while the competition continues in Nagoya and across Aichi Prefecture.