The closing ceremony of ASIAD 2026 was themed "United in Emotion," continuing the overarching spirit of the Games. The image of the athletes' heartbeats continued to appear in the program, symbolizing the connection between people from many different countries and territories who came together on the continental sports stage.
An Asia beating in unison.
From the exhilarating moments of the opening day, the fierce competitions, to the joy of victory and even the tears of regret, the more than two-week journey of ASIAD 2026 is recreated through emotionally rich images in the Closing Ceremony.
“ONE ASIA” is not only the theme of the program but also the message the host country sends to the entire continent. On the field, athletes are rivals; but after each competition, they share moments, friendships, and respect. Sports thus become a bridge bringing nations and territories closer together.
The closing ceremony included a video reviewing the highlights of ASIAD 2026, tribute performances, and a parade of athletes. The atmosphere at Nagoya City Mizuho Park Athletic Stadium became vibrant as the sports delegations appeared together, marking the end of a memorable Asian Games.
Following the artistic performances were the important ceremonies of the Closing Ceremony, including the declaration of the end of the Games, the lowering of the Asian Olympic Council (OCA) flag, and the handover of the hosting flag to Doha (Qatar), the host city of ASIAD 2030.
Speaking at the ceremony, Aichi Prefecture Governor Hideaki Omura expressed his gratitude to the sports delegations, athletes, coaches, volunteers, and all those who contributed to the success of the Games. He affirmed that the efforts and dedication of all participants made this a memorable ASIAD, and expressed his hope that major sporting events like the ASIAD will continue to contribute to building a united Asia.
Asian Olympic Council President Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani praised the host country Aichi-Nagoya's organizational efforts, highlighting the outstanding achievements and numerous records set at the 2026 Asian Games. He expressed hope that the 2030 Asian Games in Doha would build on the success of this edition and further advance Asian sports.
Handing over the flag to Doha, concluding the Aichi-Nagoya tour.
One of the most anticipated ceremonies at the closing ceremony was the handover of the ASIAD hosting flag from Aichi-Nagoya to Doha. Qatar will host the 21st Asian Games in 2030. This will also be the second time Doha has hosted the ASIAD, after the 2006 Asian Games.
Before the program concluded, the Asian Games flame was extinguished, officially bringing to an end more than two weeks of competition at ASIAD 2026, leaving behind lasting impressions of a large-scale sporting event held in Japan.
The 2026 Asian Games, held from September 19th to October 4th, brought together over 11,000 athletes and approximately 6,000 officials and delegation members from 45 countries and territories. The Games featured 43 sports and 71 disciplines with 469 competitive events.
The Vietnamese sports delegation participating in ASIAD 2026 consisted of 498 members, competing in 33 sports. At the end of the Games, Vietnamese athletes won 3 gold medals, 3 silver medals, and 19 bronze medals, ranking 20th overall.
China leads the medal table with 169 gold medals, 89 silver medals, and 83 bronze medals. Host nation Japan is second with 83 gold medals, 85 silver medals, and 91 bronze medals. South Korea ranks third with 39 gold medals, 43 silver medals, and 68 bronze medals.
With the conclusion of ASIAD 2026, the Asian Games flag was handed over to Doha, and the journey towards the 21st edition officially began. The message "ONE ASIA" affirms the unifying power of sport – where differences in language, culture, and geography are bridged, so that nations can work together towards a united and prosperous Asia.
Source: https://hanoimoi.vn/be-mac-asiad-2026-doha-don-co-a-van-hoi-2030-1759520.html
