Nagoya:Qatar concluded its campaign at the 20th Asian Games Aichi-Nagoya 2026 in Japan with a historic achievement, securing a total of 18 medals. This comprised six golds, six silvers, and six bronzes, surpassing their previous record of 14 medals at Hangzhou 2022.
According to Qatar News Agency, the Qatari delegation, consisting of 243 athletes, competed in 26 sports and 32 disciplines. The event featured more than 17,000 athletes and officials. Before the final day, Qatar had already won 16 medals, with equestrian events contributing another gold and bronze, bringing the total to 18 medals.
Qatar's performance marked a significant progression from previous Games. They had won 13 medals in 2018 and 14 in Hangzhou 2022. The 2026 Games saw Qatar achieve several noteworthy milestones, such as a gold medal in padel. Rashid Nawaf and Mishari Nawaf became the first Asian Games champions in padel, a sport debuting at the Games.
In beach volleyball, Cherif Younousse and Ahmed Tijan secured their third consecutive gold medal by defeating Indonesia in the final. Shooting also played a key role, with Qatar winning team and individual skeet golds, along with two silver medals in trap events. Athletics added to the tally with Bassem Mohammed's gold in the 400-meter hurdles and other medal wins in relay and individual events.
Qatar's athletes also excelled in sports such as 3x3 basketball, handball, karate, weightlifting, and wrestling. The final day saw Faleh Suweid Al Ajami win gold and Bassem Hassan Mohammed take bronze in equestrian show jumping, completing Qatar's medal haul.
The success at the Games builds anticipation for Doha, set to host the 21st Asian Games in 2030. Abdullah Al Marri, head of Team Qatar's Media Delegation, highlighted the comprehensive media coverage of the Games and emphasized the significance of receiving the Asian Games flag for 2030. He noted that the event was a pivotal moment in Qatar's sporting journey, showcasing the nation's readiness to host an extraordinary edition of the Games.
Al Marri also pointed out that hosting major sporting events enhances various sectors in Qatar, reinforcing the country's National Vision 2030. He praised the achievements of the Qatari delegation in Nagoya and emphasized the importance of their success as a step towards Doha 2030.