Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani was elected as the new President of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) on January 26, 2026, in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. The election took place during the 46th OCA General Assembly, with representatives from all 45 Asian National Olympic Committees (NOCs) present. This marks a significant leadership transition for the organization responsible for governing sports across the continent and overseeing events like the Asian Games.
A New Era for the Olympic Council of Asia
The election of Sheikh Joaan follows the resignation of former President Raja Randhir Singh due to health concerns. Sheikh Joaan will serve the remainder of Singh’s term, stepping into a role with a long history of promoting athletic competition and cooperation throughout Asia. The first multisport Games in Asia were held in 1913, and the OCA has since grown to become a vital component of the global Olympic Movement.
Vision for the Future
During his address to the General Assembly, Sheikh Joaan outlined his vision for the OCA, encapsulated in the slogan “Together for Asia.” This vision centers on seven key pillars, including strengthening solidarity and development, supporting athletic excellence, and promoting good governance within the organization. He also emphasized the importance of innovation, sustainability, inclusivity, and expanding international representation to advocate for Asia’s sporting interests.
Sheikh Joaan highlighted the unique position of Asia as the largest and most diverse continent within the Olympic family. He stated that this diversity is a strength, but requires unity and mutual respect to achieve its full potential. His commitment to empowering National Olympic Committees and providing opportunities for young athletes was a central theme of his speech.
Additionally, Sheikh Joaan acknowledged the contributions of his predecessor, Raja Randhir Singh, praising his leadership and dedication during challenging times. He expressed sincere appreciation for Singh’s tireless efforts in advancing the OCA’s mission. This acknowledgement signals a commitment to building upon past successes while charting a new course for the future.
Implications for Asian Sport
The change in leadership at the OCA comes at a crucial time for Asian sport. The continent is increasingly becoming a major player on the world stage, with countries like China, Japan, and South Korea consistently achieving success in Olympic and world championships. The Asian Games, a key event overseen by the OCA, are also growing in prominence and attracting significant investment. This shift presents both opportunities and challenges for the organization.
One key area of focus for the new administration will likely be ensuring the continued growth and development of sports in less developed Asian nations. The OCA has a responsibility to promote inclusivity and provide support to all its member NOCs, regardless of their resources. Another important consideration will be navigating the evolving landscape of international sports governance and maintaining the integrity of Asian competitions. The rise of esports and other emerging sports also presents opportunities for the OCA to broaden its appeal and engage with younger audiences. The development of sporting infrastructure across Asia will also be a key area of focus.
Sheikh Joaan’s existing role as Senior Vice President of the Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC) suggests a strong understanding of the broader Olympic ecosystem. This experience will be valuable as he seeks to strengthen the OCA’s position within the international sporting community and advocate for the interests of Asian athletes. His leadership is expected to focus on fostering collaboration and innovation to enhance the overall quality and impact of Asian sports.
Looking ahead, the OCA will be focused on preparations for future Asian Games and other major events. The next steps involve a detailed assessment of the organization’s priorities and the development of a strategic plan to implement Sheikh Joaan’s vision. The effectiveness of this plan, and the ability of the OCA to adapt to the changing demands of the global sports landscape, will be key factors to watch in the coming years.