Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya has made it clear that only athletes capable of delivering strong performances will be cleared to represent India at the 2026 Asian Games, reiterating that the event is not meant for “exposure” but for winning medals.
His comments come amid discussions over the inclusion of the Indian football team in the country’s contingent for the Asian Games, which begin on September 19 in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan.
Addressing the issue during an interaction here on Thursday, Mandaviya said the government would maintain complete transparency in the selection process but would strictly follow the eligibility criteria before approving athletes and teams.
“Asian Games or Commonwealth Games are not for exposure; it is a platform for athletes who can make the country proud. That is why we have the selection criteria saying only the top six in continental rankings would be considered. Exposure can be gained elsewhere; there is enough time and competition through the years,” he said.
He added that the government remains committed to supporting athletes through overseas training and exposure trips in the lead-up to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, but participation in the Asian Games would only be approved for those who meet the required standards.
“The ministry will never stop anyone from that. If federations prepare a training or exposure plan for LA 2028 and submit it to us now, they will have our full support for the next two years. Even individual athletes who wish to train anywhere in the world will be assisted. But going to the Asian Games simply for participation means jobs will not be cleared,” he declared.
Mandaviya also revealed that India’s contingent for the Asian Games is expected to be capped at around 560 members. He explained that while national sports federations are responsible for selecting athletes, every recommendation must follow the ministry’s guidelines and will undergo multiple levels of scrutiny before receiving final approval.
“Videography in the presence of a government observer is mandatory. The selected names are then sent to the IOA, which forwards them to the Sports Authority of India for vetting. That list then comes to the ministry for final clearance, and only those will be allowed,” he added.