Tashkent, Uzbekistan is hosting the 46th General Assembly of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) this week, with Qatar playing a central role. The assembly, which began Monday, is widely anticipated to see Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al-Thani, the current President of the Qatar Olympic Committee, elected as the new OCA President. This pivotal event marks a potential shift in leadership for the continent’s largest sports organization, drawing over 350 officials from 45 Asian National Olympic Committees.
The meeting is taking place from December 16-17, 2023, in the Uzbek capital. Discussions will center on upcoming regional sporting events and the overall direction of the OCA. Representatives from various international sports federations are also in attendance, underscoring the assembly’s global significance.
Qatar’s Sheikh Joaan Poised to Lead Olympic Council of Asia
Sheikh Joaan’s expected ascension to the OCA presidency follows years of increasing involvement in international sports administration. He has been instrumental in Qatar’s successful bids to host major events, including the 2022 FIFA World Cup, and has actively promoted sports development within the region. His election would make him the first leader from Qatar to hold the position.
The assembly’s agenda includes a review of progress reports from the organizing committees of the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, the Asian Beach Games in Sanya, China, and the 2026 Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. These reports will assess preparations, budgets, and potential challenges for each event, ensuring smooth execution and maximizing their impact.
Key Agenda Items and Regional Event Preparations
The opening ceremony featured welcoming remarks from Timothy Fok, the OCA’s First Vice-President and Chairman of the Hong Kong Olympic Committee, followed by an address from Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, who also heads the National Olympic Committee of Uzbekistan. These addresses set the tone for collaborative discussions and reaffirmed the commitment to advancing the Olympic movement in Asia.
Approval of the minutes from the 45th General Assembly, held in Kuwait last May, is a standard procedural item. Additionally, reports from the OCA’s regional vice-presidents will provide insights into the specific needs and priorities of their respective areas. This feedback is crucial for tailoring OCA programs and initiatives to effectively support national Olympic committees.
The election of the OCA President is the most closely watched aspect of the assembly. Sheikh Joaan is considered the frontrunner, and his election is expected to bring a renewed focus on innovation and collaboration within Asian sports. The Asian Games, as the OCA’s flagship event, will likely be a key area of emphasis under his leadership.
Qatar has significantly invested in sports infrastructure and development in recent decades. This commitment, coupled with its experience in hosting large-scale events, positions the nation as a strong advocate for enhancing the sports landscape across Asia. The country’s involvement extends beyond hosting to include supporting athlete training programs and promoting sports diplomacy.
The upcoming regional events face logistical and economic hurdles, particularly in a post-pandemic world. The assembly will provide a platform for sharing best practices and addressing these challenges collectively. Organizers are also focused on ensuring the safety and well-being of athletes and participants.
While the election of Sheikh Joaan appears highly probable, the final outcome remains subject to the voting process. The assembly also serves as an opportunity for networking and strengthening relationships among key stakeholders in the Asian sports community. The results of these discussions will shape the future of the OCA and its impact on the continent.
Following the conclusion of the General Assembly, the OCA Executive Board will convene to discuss next steps and finalize plans for the coming years. A formal announcement regarding the election of the new President is expected shortly after the vote. Observers will be watching to see how Sheikh Joaan prioritizes key initiatives and addresses the evolving challenges facing Asian sports in his new role.
