Kuwaiti Delegation Prepares for Asian Games Despite Nagoya Flooding

By the Editorial Team · Thursday, September 10, 2026

A Kuwaiti delegation of 120 athletes is set to compete in 16 sports at the 20th Asian Games in Japan from September 19 to October 4. Despite severe flooding in Nagoya, organizers confirmed that the venues sustained minimal damage and the event schedule remains on track, ensuring a major opportunity for Kuwait to showcase its athletes on a prominent continental stage.

A Kuwaiti delegation of 120 athletes is preparing to participate in the 20th Asian Games, which are set to take place from September 19 to October 4 in Aichi-Nagoya and surrounding areas in Japan. The athletes will compete across 16 sports, including shooting, athletics, football, golf, modern pentathlon, fencing, teqball, sport climbing, karate, equestrian, squash, jiu-jitsu, swimming, handball, padel, and sailing.

Sheikh Fahad Nasser Al-Sabah, chairman of the Kuwait Olympic Committee, emphasized the significance of the event for Kuwaiti sports, describing it as an important opportunity for the nation’s athletes to showcase their abilities on one of Asia’s largest sporting stages. He highlighted the efforts made by the Kuwait Olympic Committee to ensure the delegation is fully prepared and supported to achieve a commendable performance. Sheikh Fahad extended his gratitude to His Highness the Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah and His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah for their continued backing of Kuwaiti athletes. He also acknowledged the contributions of private-sector partners such as Zain Telecommunications Company and Kuwait Finance House for their strategic support.

The athletes have been encouraged to compete with confidence, determination, and sportsmanship, with hopes that their participation will bring pride to Kuwait and see the national flag raised during the Games.

Meanwhile, organizers in Nagoya reported that early-arriving athletes were unharmed following severe flooding in the city. Mayor Ichiro Hirosawa stated that despite record rainfall causing widespread flooding, damages to the Asian Games venues have been limited mainly to roof leaks, and no significant disruptions to the event schedule are expected. Around 400 athletes and staff members housed in temporary accommodations made from converted shipping containers were briefly evacuated to higher ground as heavy rains hit the area.

The downpour on Tuesday led to the flooding of roads and residences, temporarily halting city bus and subway services. Approximately 3,500 residents sought refuge in emergency evacuation centers as a precautionary measure. The mayor expressed confidence that the Asian Games would proceed as planned.

The Asian Games will host over 11,000 athletes from 45 countries and regions, surpassing the number who participated in the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. The previous edition of the Games was held in Hangzhou, China, three years ago.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.