Asian Games 2026: Fatima Sana, Noor Zaman lead Pakistan contingent at opening ceremony

Pakistan’s women’s cricket captain Fatima Sana and squash player Noor Zaman led the country’s delegation as flag-bearers at the opening ceremony of the 2026 Asian Games in Nagoya on Saturday.

A 246-member Pakistani contingent is taking part in 23 sports at the continental event, including cricket, squash, hockey, athletics and esports, according to the Pakistan Olympic Association.

The Games will feature more than 11,000 athletes and 6,000 officials from 45 countries and territories, with competition continuing until October 4. More than 40 sports are part of the programme, including regional favourites such as kabaddi and sepak takraw alongside athletics, swimming and other Olympic disciplines.

The Games have already seen several logistical challenges before their formal opening. Organisers have not provided a traditional athletes’ village, instead housing participants in hotels, temporary container-style accommodation and the Costa Serena cruise ship.

Heavy rainfall caused flooding in parts of Nagoya last week, while a typhoon approaching eastern Japan could affect the event in the coming days. Some athletes also faced delays after transport failed to arrive at the airport, while teams raised complaints about the temporary accommodation, including the size of beds.

The opening ceremony took place at the 30,000-capacity Paloma Mizuho Stadium, where Japan’s Emperor and Empress were present along with International Olympic Committee President Kirsty Coventry. Despite organisers saying tickets had sold out, many seats were visibly empty.

The Olympic Council of Asia said the ceremony was intended to promote unity across the continent at a time of regional tensions. OCA President Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al-Thani said the event was taking place against the backdrop of conflicts in Asia and political tensions in the Middle East.