Asian Games 2026: India May Allow Non-Medal Athletes to Compete Under ‘No Cost to Government’ Plan

India’s contingent for the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya could include athletes beyond those with medal-winning potential if a recent committee recommendation is approved. According to a report, the proposal would allow so-called “non-medal prospects” to travel under a “no cost to government” model, requiring athletes to fund their participation independently or through private sponsors.

This possible shift comes even as the Sports Ministry had earlier tightened selection norms, restricting government support to athletes with a realistic chance of winning medals at the continental level. Under the existing guidelines, athletes were required to be ranked among the top six in individual events or the top eight in team events at the Asian level to qualify.

Allowing non-medal prospects to compete at their own expense appears to be an attempt to balance fiscal discipline with broader athlete exposure. By transferring financial responsibility away from the government, the proposal creates a pathway for promising but not yet elite athletes to gain international experience without adding pressure on public funds.

The move aligns with longer-term sporting goals. Wider participation could help build depth in emerging and less-popular disciplines, offering younger athletes valuable exposure. Previous initiatives, such as the proposed Target Asian Games Group (TAGG), reflect the understanding that not all representatives at continental events are immediate medal winners, and that experience often precedes success.

Athletes who do not meet medal-prospect criteria may still get an opportunity to travel if they or their sponsors can cover the costs. For many, this could provide rare access to continental-level competition. The policy could result in a larger yet financially sustainable Indian delegation, with national federations nominating athletes based on long-term potential rather than immediate podium finishes.

However, the proposal also raises concerns. Questions remain over whether privately funded athletes would receive adequate support, including coaching, physiotherapy and accommodation. Under earlier rules, additional support staff were barred regardless of whether costs were borne privately.

There is also the risk of diluted focus if delegation sizes increase significantly. The push to restrict numbers was aimed at prioritising excellence and high-performance outcomes. While India recorded its best-ever medal haul at the previous Asian Games, bridging the gap between participation and consistent podium finishes remains a challenge.

By allowing broader, self-funded participation, the Sports Ministry appears to be exploring a talent-pipeline approach - giving more athletes exposure now with an eye on future editions. At the same time, limiting government backing to proven medal contenders helps maintain competitive focus and fiscal accountability.