Olympic Council of Asia president says politics have already entered into the Asian Games

The president of the Olympic Council of Asia acknowledged that politics — in the form of a welcoming ceremony involving Taiwan — had already entered into the Asian Games NAGOYA, Japan -- The president of the Olympic Council of Asia acknowledged Saturday that politics — in the form of a welcoming ceremony involving Taiwan — had already entered into the Asian Games. He did not sound pleased about it, speaking just hours before the official opening ceremony on Saturday. Some events at the Asian Games began several days ago to accommodate a packed schedule and more than 17,000 athletes and officials.

Up to 5,000 are housed on a cruise ship. He is the younger brother of the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Al Thani. Sheikh Joaan was asked about an incident Friday at the Asian Games in which Taiwan's sports minister, Lee Yang, was temporarily barred from a welcoming ceremony and a flag-raising.

Lee was later allowed to participate and the OCA attributed the incident to a misunderstanding. And all the delegations know what the protocol is and what should be done, and what shouldn't be done.” Lee is a two-time Olympic gold medalist in badminton. He won gold twice in doubles — 2020 and 2024 — each time defeating a Chinese pair in the final.

Taiwan competes in the Asian Games and the Olympics under the name of Chinese Taipei and without its flag due to China’s claim on the island off its east coast. Taiwan media reported the OCA had issued an order barring Lee. Taiwan media reported that Taiwan officials asked to see the order but officials were unable to produce it.

We stood firm on our dignity and principles.” Lee later told Taiwanese reporters that “we are doing our best to safeguard our rights and do not want to be subjected to any form of suppression." “We also hope more Taiwanese athletes can perform at their best and give their all at the games so that Taiwan can be more visible on the international stage.” See full AP coverage of Asian sports here 24/7 coverage of breaking news and live events