The Palestinian sports delegation is preparing to take part in the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games, which will be held in Japan from September 19 to October 4. The Asian Games are one of the largest sporting events in Asia, bringing together delegations from 45 countries and regions across the continent.

Palestine will participate in the 20th edition of the Asian Games with a delegation of 108 members, including 67 male and female athletes. They will compete in 19 sports, including seven combat sports and one team sport. This participation reflects the diversity and growing development of Palestinian sports.

The Palestinian athletes will compete in taekwondo, athletics, wrestling, karate, mixed martial arts, judo, triathlon, jiu-jitsu, sailing and rowing, swimming, modern pentathlon, equestrian, shooting, archery, boxing, esports, weightlifting, baseball, and golf.

The participation is particularly important for the athletes and national sports federations. The athletes are hoping to perform at their best, achieve strong results, and reach the podium. Such achievements would strengthen the presence of Palestinian sports and support the athletes as they prepare for future Olympic and international competitions.

The Asian Games will also give Palestinian athletes an important opportunity to compete against some of the best athletes in Asia. This experience will help them improve their skills, gain valuable international experience, and further develop their performance.

The Palestinian Olympic Committee has ensured Palestine’s continued participation in the Asian Games since the Bangkok edition in 1998. Palestine has taken part in every edition since then, despite the difficult circumstances and challenges faced by Palestinian athletes.

The Palestinian delegation includes some of the country’s leading national team athletes, from both Palestine and the diaspora. Their participation reflects the unity of the Palestinian people and the strong connections among Palestinian athletes and sporting communities around the world.

Beyond competition, the participation also provides an opportunity to highlight Palestine’s presence on the international stage and showcase Palestinian sports. It reaffirms Palestine’s established place within the Asian and international sports communities.

Japan is hosting the Asian Games for the third time, following Tokyo in 1958 and Hiroshima in 1994. The Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games will be held under the slogan “Imagine One Asia” and will feature competitions in more than 40 sports.