Team sports like football and hockey qualify if they ranked top eight in Asia or last Senior Asian Championships
New Delhi
The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has issued new selection criteria for India’s participation in the Asian Games 2026 and other multi-sport events. The framework aims to bring transparency and ensure that only athletes and teams with genuine medal prospects are considered.
For measurable individual sports, athletes must match or better the sixth-place performance from the last Asian Games at a recognized international event within the past 12 months. If the event was not contested earlier, results from the most recent Senior Asian Championships will serve as the benchmark.
For non-measurable sports, athletes must finish sixth or better at the latest Senior Asian Championships or be among the top six Asian competitors in world rankings. Where such benchmarks are unavailable, a top-six finish in comparable international events will be required.
Team sports, including football and hockey, will qualify if they finished in the top eight at the last Senior Asian Championships or are ranked within Asia’s top eight. If rankings or championships are unavailable, teams must secure a top-eight finish in an equivalent international competition.
The guidelines also include a relaxation clause, allowing exceptions based on expert advice and recommendations from the Sports Authority of India. However, the ministry clarified it would not approve entries meant only for participation without a strong chance of success.
Additionally, only sportspersons, coaches, and support staff cleared at government cost will be included in India’s contingent. No extra members will be permitted, even on a self-financed basis.
The ministry emphasized that these rules are designed to maintain high standards and ensure India’s focus remains on excellence and medal-winning potential.
