Japan Emperor Declares Asian Games Open in Nagoya

Japan's Emperor Naruhito officially declared the 2026 Asian Games open during a grand ceremony held in Nagoya. The opening event took place in the presence of Empress Masako and other members of the Japanese imperial family. Leaders from major sports bodies also attended the ceremony, including Olympic Council of Asia president Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani and International Olympic Committee president Kirsty Coventry. Following the launch, the sporting events will run from September 19 to October 4.