Less than one year to go for the Aichi–Nagoya 2026 Asian Para Games, delegates from Asia’s National Paralympic Committees (NPCs) gathered in Nagoya for the Chefs de Mission (CDM) Seminar – the first major milestone on the road to the 5th Asian Para Games.
Representatives from 31 NPCs, the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games Organising Committee (AINAGOC), various stakeholders, and the Asian Paralympic Committee (APC) attended the two-day seminar, which provided firsthand information on key operational areas and updates on Games preparations.
Day One featured detailed presentations from AINAGOC and one-on-one meetings with NPCs, covering essential topics such as accreditation, venues, transport, accommodation, classification, and competition operations.
Day Two included site visits to key Games locations, the Athlete Plaza (Accommodation Site), the Athlete Plaza Villa Showcase (Model Housing), and Nagoya City Mizuho Park Stadium, which will host Para Athletics and the Opening and Closing Ceremonies. The visits gave delegates valuable insights into what to expect and prepare for ahead of the historic Games.
In his opening remarks, APC President Majid Rashed extended his sincere appreciation to the hosts- Governor Hideaki Ohmura, President of AINAGOC; Mr. Murate Satoshi, Secretary General; and Mr. Yagi Kazuhiro, Vice Secretary General – for their leadership and unwavering commitment to delivering an exceptional Games.
“This CDM Seminar is where the journey becomes real where plans take shape, ideas are shared, and collaboration begins. Over the past two days, delegates have received all the key information needed to help their teams perform at the highest level,” said Mr. Rashed.
He also commended the dedication of NPCs across Asia: “Every NPC has been working tirelessly – training athletes, building systems, and ensuring that each competitor arrives ready to give their best. This commitment is what makes the Asian Para Games so powerful.”
Paying tribute to the athletes, he added: “Our athletes are the heartbeat of this movement. They are the true power of Para sport showing the world that with determination, anything is possible.”
Mr. Rashed highlighted that the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Para Games will be Japan’s largest Para sport event since the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games – “an event that will once again remind us how Para sport can inspire, connect, and transform lives.”
He concluded by thanking AINAGOC, the Japan Paralympic Committee, and all partners for their dedication and hard work “in creating Games that will leave a legacy for Japan and for Asia.”
Delegates praise progress & preparation
Delegates praised AINAGOC and APC for hosting the Seminar and site visits one year ahead of the Games, describing it as a valuable opportunity to witness the readiness and progress of the venues and facilities.
They commended the Organising Committee for the smooth coordination, detailed planning, and impressive preparations already in place.
NPCs also praised the location and condition of the Athlete Plaza, highlighting the accessibility features, facilities, and overall arrangements that will provide a comfortable environment for athletes and officials.
They were equally impressed by the Villas – its accessibility, design, and readiness to welcome Asia’s best Para athletes.
“The Seminar helped us gain firsthand information about the progress of preparations for the Games. It also allowed us to see and experience the arrangements made by the Organising Committee. We are confident that AINAGOC will deliver one of the best Games,” said one delegate.
At the conclusion of the Chefs de Mission Seminar, an official Invitation Letters Handover Ceremony was held, marking a significant milestone on the road to the Aichi–Nagoya 2026 Asian Para Games.
