South Asia Olympic Council (SAOC) Executive Committee meeting and key decisions for the 14th South Asian Games 2026

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South Asia Olympic Council (SAOC) Executive Committee meeting and key decisions for the 14th South Asian Games 2026
South Asia Olympic Council (SAOC) Executive Committee meeting and key decisions for the 14th South Asian Games 2026
South Asia Olympic Council (SAOC) Executive Committee meeting and key decisions for the 14th South Asian Games 2026
South Asia Olympic Council (SAOC) Executive Committee meeting and key decisions for the 14th South Asian Games 2026

The Executive Committee of the South Asia Olympic Council (SAOC) concluded a productive meeting in Lahore, finalizing significant decisions for the 14th South Asian Games, set to take place from 23 to 31 January 2026 across Lahore, Faisalabad, and Islamabad.
Representing the Maldives Olympic Committee (MOC) at the meeting were Vice President Mr. Ahmed Munthaqim and Secretary General Mr. Thamooh Ahmed Saeed, who joined NOC representatives from Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and host nation Pakistan.

Key Outcomes of the Meeting
Games Schedule Finalized – The event dates were confirmed, ensuring preparation time for participating nations.
Approval of Sports Program – A total of 27 sports were approved for the Games. The specific events within each sport will be finalized by 31 March 2025, with technical handbooks to be prepared following approval from the respective Asian Federations.
SAOC Constitution Review – A committee was established to align the SAOC Constitution with the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA). Additionally, an OCA representative will be invited to future SAOC meetings to strengthen collaboration.


Sports Confirmed for the 14th South Asian Games
The approved sports include Aquatics (Swimming), Archery, Athletics, Badminton, Billiards & Snooker, Boxing, Fencing, Golf, Judo, Karate, Shooting, Squash, Table Tennis, Taekwondo, Tennis, Triathlon, Weightlifting, Wrestling, Wushu, Basketball (3x3 and 5x5), Cricket, Football, Handball & Beach Handball, Hockey, Kabaddi, Rugby, Volleyball & Beach Volleyball, and Rowing (pending endorsement from four NOCs).

As preparations for the Games progress, Maldives is currently assessing its participation across the approved disciplines, with final decisions to be communicated to the respective associations in due course.


The South Asian Games serve as a crucial platform for Maldivian athletes to compete at the highest level, and MOC remains committed to supporting Team Maldives in its preparations for the 2026 edition.