Asian Para Games 2026: Torch and medals unveiled at 100-day countdown
Synopsis
With exactly 100 days to go, the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Para Games moved into its final act — unveiling the torch, medals, and relay uniform in Nagoya. Hosting 3,000 athletes from 45 nations across 18 Para sports, this will be Japan's biggest multi-sport event since Tokyo 2020, and organisers are framing its legacy around inclusion as much as athletic achievement.
Key Takeaways
AINAGOC hosted the 100 Days to Go ceremony in Nagoya on 16 July 2025 , unveiling the torch, medals, torch relay uniform, and commemorative gifts.
The Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Para Games are scheduled from 18 to 24 October 2026 .
Approximately 3,000 athletes from 45 National Paralympic Committees will compete across 18 Para sports .
The Games will be Japan's first major multi-sport event since the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games .
Medals are themed around the slogan 'Imagine One Heart' ; winners also receive mascot Uzumin commemorative gifts in gold, silver, and bronze.
APC President Majid Rashed and CEO Tarek Souei attended the ceremony, reaffirming the APC's commitment to the final phase of preparations.
The Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Para Games marked a pivotal milestone on 16 July 2025 as the organising committee AINAGOC hosted the official 100 Days to Go ceremony in Nagoya, Japan, unveiling the Games' torch, medals, torch relay uniform, and commemorative gifts. The event signals the final stretch of preparations for Asia's largest Para sporting event, scheduled from 18 to 24 October 2026.
What Was Unveiled
The newly revealed medals draw inspiration from the Games' slogan, 'Imagine One Heart', symbolising people from diverse cultures uniting through sport and honouring athletes' dedication on their path to the podium. Medal winners will also receive commemorative gifts featuring the official mascot Uzumin in gold, silver, and bronze editions.
The torch relay uniform mirrors the same themes of unity, connection, and hope — representing athletes, volunteers, officials, and spectators converging to celebrate the Games.
Key Stakeholders at the Ceremony
An Asian Paralympic Committee (APC) delegation, led by APC President Majid Rashed, attended alongside representatives from AINAGOC, Aichi Prefecture, the City of Nagoya, and other key stakeholders including government officials, local authorities, and members of the Paralympic Movement.
APC Chief Executive Officer Tarek Souei also attended, praising the organisers and reaffirming the APC's support during this final phase. 'The Asian Para Games are much more than competition. They are a celebration of courage, resilience, and inclusion, which is made possible by the tireless efforts of staff, volunteers, partners, and the entire community of Aichi Prefecture and the City of Nagoya,' he said.
What the Games Will Feature
The Aichi-Nagoya 2026 edition will welcome approximately 3,000 athletes from 45 National Paralympic Committees, competing across 18 Para sports. This will also mark Japan's first major multi-sport event since the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The Legacy Ambition
Addressing the gathering, Rashed stressed that the Games' impact would reach far beyond the medal tally. 'The true legacy of the Games will not simply be measured in medals or records. It will be reflected in the stronger, more inclusive society they help create — one where people with and without disabilities are respected equally, celebrated for their unique talents, and given every opportunity to succeed,' he said.
Rashed also pointed to the broader momentum of Para sport across the continent. 'Asia is witnessing one of the most exciting periods in the history of the Paralympic Movement. Our athletes continue to raise the standard of competition and inspire millions across the continent,' he added, concluding with the Games' rallying message that 'Nothing is Impossible.'
What Happens Next
With preparations entering their final stage, AINAGOC and the APC have committed to delivering what they describe as the most accessible, sustainable, and athlete-centred Asian Para Games in history. Organisers are fine-tuning logistics across all 18 competition venues as the October opening approaches.
Point of View
But the framing here is notably more ambitious than the usual countdown ritual. AINAGOC and the APC are explicitly positioning Aichi-Nagoya 2026 as a vehicle for social change — inclusion, accessibility, equal respect — rather than just a sporting calendar entry. That is a heavier lift than medal counts, and Japan's record on disability inclusion in public life will be under scrutiny. The reference to Tokyo 2020 is also double-edged: that Games delivered logistical excellence but was held without spectators, limiting its community legacy. Whether Aichi-Nagoya can deliver the 'stronger, more inclusive society' Rashed described will depend on what structures outlast the closing ceremony.
NationPress
16 Jul 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
When are the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Para Games?
The Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Para Games are scheduled from 18 to 24 October 2026 in Aichi Prefecture and the City of Nagoya, Japan. They will be Japan's first major multi-sport event since the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
What was unveiled at the 100 Days to Go ceremony?
The official torch, medals, torch relay uniform, and commemorative gifts were unveiled at the ceremony hosted by AINAGOC in Nagoya on 16 July 2025. Medal winners will also receive mascot Uzumin commemorative gifts in gold, silver, and bronze editions.
How many athletes will compete at the Asian Para Games 2026?
Around 3,000 athletes from 45 National Paralympic Committees are expected to compete across 18 Para sports at the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Para Games.
What is the theme of the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Para Games?
The Games' official slogan is 'Imagine One Heart', reflecting themes of unity, inclusion, and hope. The medals and torch relay uniform have both been designed around this theme, symbolising diverse cultures coming together through sport.
Who leads the Asian Paralympic Committee for these Games?
APC President Majid Rashed leads the Asian Paralympic Committee and attended the 100 Days to Go ceremony in Nagoya. He was accompanied by APC CEO Tarek Souei, who reaffirmed the APC's support for the final phase of preparations.
