About Asian Games
The Asian Games are the world's second-largest multi-sport event after the Olympics, held every four years. The 20th edition took place in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan from September 19, 2026 — Japan's third time hosting, after Tokyo 1958 and Hiroshima 1994 — and Doha, Qatar hosts the 21st.
The Asian Games are colossal: around 45 nations and some 12,000 athletes — more competitors than the Summer Olympics — across roughly 40 sports. Alongside the Olympic disciplines, the program celebrates sports with deep Asian roots, from kabaddi and sepak takraw to wushu, plus esports, which drew enormous crowds at the previous Games in Hangzhou.
Expect powerhouse battles at the top of the medal table — China, Japan and South Korea have finished as the top three at every recent edition — and breakout performances from across the continent, with athletes using the Games as a springboard toward LA 2028. Doha has published November 4 to 19, 2030 for the next Games, with Khalifa International Stadium as the main venue. The Olympic Council of Asia has also approved moving the cycle to the year before the Summer Olympics, which would shift this edition to 2031 — so treat the dates as expected rather than fixed.
FAQ
When are the next Asian Games?
Asian Games is expected on Monday, November 4, 2030. That is 1485 days from today. Doha, Qatar has published November 4 to 19, 2030, though the OCA has approved a cycle change that could move them to 2031; a final decision was expected by early 2027. The 2026 Games in Aichi-Nagoya ran from September 19.
How big are the Asian Games?
Around 12,000 athletes from 45 nations — by participation, larger than the Summer Olympics — competing in roughly 40 sports.
Which sports are unique to the Asian Games?
Traditional Asian sports like kabaddi, sepak takraw and wushu feature alongside Olympic disciplines, plus medal events in esports.
Who usually wins the Asian Games?
China has topped the medal table at every Asian Games since 1982, typically followed by Japan and South Korea.