Kuwait City, Kuwait, May 19, 2022: The Director General of the Olympic Council of Asia, Husain Al Musallam, has revealed that the decision to postpone the 19th Asian Games was “one of the most difficult in OCA history” and taken with the best interests of athletes who would compete in Hangzhou, China.
In a letter addressed to all athletes participating in the Hangzhou 2022 Asian Games, Director General Al Musallam, and the OCA Athletes Committee Chair Mikako Kotani, strongly emphasised that postponing the showpiece was taken mindful of creating a perfect environment for the athletes to travel, compete and enjoy the Games.
“The OCA’s decision was one of the most difficult decisions taken in the history of our organisation, however, the decision was taken by all stakeholders after carefully considering the pandemic situation and the size of the Games,” the jointly-signed letter stated.
On May 6, the OCA Executive Board unanimously voted to postpone the 19th Asian Games which were scheduled to be held from September 10-25, 2022. A new date will be announced later.
“We would like to assure you that athletes are at the heart of everything we do. We will work hard with the OCA Athletes Department and OCA Athletes Committee to listen to your voices and concerns, and together help each other to overcome any challenges we may face.”
The letter called all athletes who had concerns to get in touch with the OCA through the Athletes Department and Athletes Committee (tony@ocasia.org).
“We are always ready to listen to your voices and help you until we celebrate together again at the Asian Games,” the letter added.
It concluded saying: “The OCA Athletes Department and the OCA Athletes Committee will soon announce a series of events to help athletes overcome all your challenges and come back stronger.”
