World · Singapore Bureau
Asian Para Games mayor apologises over national anthem mix-up
Officials at the Asian Para Games in central Japan have apologised after incorrect national anthems were played during medal ceremonies. The incident follows similar protocol breaches at the preceding Asian Games.
LSN Singapore ·
The mayor of the host city has issued a formal apology following the erroneous playing of national anthems at medal presentation ceremonies during the Asian Para Games, which runs through 24 October.
The mix-up represents another ceremonial stumble for the Japanese prefecture, which hosted the main Asian Games before transitioning to the para sports competition. Officials acknowledged the error affected the dignity of the medal proceedings and pledged to prevent further incidents.
The Asian Para Games, featuring athletes with physical, visual and intellectual disabilities, serves as a significant regional sporting event. Organisers stated they are implementing additional verification procedures to ensure correct anthems are played at remaining medal ceremonies.
The incident underscores the logistical challenges of coordinating large-scale international sporting events, particularly those involving complex ceremonial protocols and multiple competing nations. Officials have committed to reviewing their processes to maintain the standards expected at elite-level competitions.