India Sets Its Sights on Hosting the 2038 Asian Games Following 2036 Olympics Bid

India Sets Its Sights on Hosting the 2038 Asian Games Following Olympic Bid

New Delhi, India — In a bold move reflecting its growing sporting ambitions, India has officially expressed interest in hosting the 2038 Asian Games, just weeks after pitching to host the 2036 Olympics. The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) reached out to the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) earlier this month, signaling a commitment to elevate the nation’s profile in international sports.

The proposal was a key topic during the OCA’s Executive Board meeting held in China on Thursday. Following this discussion, an evaluation team from the OCA is set to visit India for an initial assessment of the country’s readiness to host the prestigious event.

“We are keen on bringing the Asian Games to India. Our communication with the OCA is ongoing, and we are excited about the possibilities,” said IOA CEO Raghuram Iyer in an interview with The Indian Express.

India is no stranger to hosting major sporting events. The country has already secured the rights to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad, where significant investments are being made to enhance sporting infrastructure. The Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel (SVP) Sports Enclave, a sprawling 355-acre facility adjacent to the Narendra Modi Stadium, is expected to serve as a key venue for these events. Additionally, the Karai Sports Hub, located near the Sabarmati riverfront, is also being developed to accommodate various sports.

While the 2026 Asian Games are set to take place in Japan, followed by Doha in 2030 and Riyadh in 2034, India’s last hosting of the Asian Games was in 1982. The nation first hosted the inaugural Asian Games in 1951, marking a significant milestone in its sporting history.

With the government’s commitment to enhancing sports infrastructure and the IOA’s proactive approach, India is poised to reclaim its status as a prominent host of international sporting events. As the nation gears up for the Commonwealth Games and aims for the Olympics, the dream of hosting the Asian Games in 2038 could be the next chapter in India’s sporting saga.

As the world watches, India’s sporting ambitions continue to rise, promising a vibrant future for athletics in the country.