Nagoya:The closing ceremony of the 20th Asian Games Aichi-Nagoya 2026 was marked by a press conference held by the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) and the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games Organising Committee (AINAGOC) at the Main Media Centre in Nagoya Port Messe.

According to Emirates News Agency, the Chair of the OCA Coordination Committee, Tayyab Ikram, praised the Games as a 'great experience' and 'wonderful experience'. He highlighted the success in providing optimal conditions for the nearly 11,000 athletes, surpassing the number typically seen at the Olympic Games. The innovative use of a cruise ship and temporary cabins at Nagoya Port for athlete accommodations was noted as a sustainable and economical model for future events.

Husain Al Musallam, Director General of OCA, commended the collaborative efforts that resulted in outstanding performances, setting 54 world records, 89 Asian records, 212 Games records, and 11 junior world records. He emphasized the importance of good accommodations, transportation, health care, and nutrition in achieving these results. Al Musallam also remarked on the Games' role in fostering unity across Asia amidst global conflicts and economic challenges.

Al Musallam further highlighted the financial success of the Games, with a 19% increase in income from marketing, sponsorship, and TV rights compared to the Hangzhou 2022 Asian Games. He noted the participation of 40 National Olympic Committees winning at least one medal and the involvement of 60,000 people, including athletes, coaches, officials, media, and volunteers.

The UAE's athletes made a notable impact, particularly the national jiu-jitsu team, which won five gold medals, surpassing their previous achievements. Emirati athlete Ahmed Khalifa Andez became one of the youngest gold medalists at 18, and runner Mariam Karim set a personal best in the 400-meter hurdles, showcasing the growth of UAE athletics.