The Asian Games are expected to undergo a major scheduling change that could shift the continental sporting calendar, according to reports.
Under a proposed plan approved by the executive office of the Olympic Council of Asia, the Games would be moved to odd-numbered years starting from 2031, positioning them in the 12 months preceding the Olympic Games. The change aims to enhance the competition’s role as a key preparatory and qualification event for the Olympics.
The proposal would reshape the timing of Asia’s largest sporting event, giving it greater competitive significance and aligning it more closely with Olympic cycles.
However, the Asian Games scheduled for next September and October in Japan will proceed as planned.
The 2030 edition in Doha is expected to be postponed by one year, after which the Games would resume on a four-year cycle in odd-numbered years instead of even years.
According to Xinhua News Agency, the proposal was discussed during a recent meeting of the Olympic Council of Asia held in Sanya. Further consultations are expected with international sports federations before a final decision is made.
Asian Olympic Council Vice President Song Luzheng said the change would help position the Asian Games as a stronger Olympic qualifier, offering elite athletes more high-level competition opportunities and raising the overall standard of the event.
