Cricket, MMA Confirmed for 2026 Asian Games

The Olympic Council of Asia has confirmed that cricket will return and MMA will debut at the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi and Nagoya, Japan, from September 19 to October 4. Cricket will feature men's and women's T20 tournaments for its fourth Asian Games appearance, while MMA will join combat sports alongside jiu-jitsu and kurash with six medal events. Venue selection for cricket is ongoing, with Sano in Tochigi Prefecture under consideration due to limited facilities in Aichi. India's MMA participation remains uncertain amid disputes over federation recognition and qualification processes. The Games are expected to host around 15,000 athletes and officials from 45 nations. Cricket’s inclusion also builds anticipation for its return to the Olympics at Los Angeles 2028.