Asia Sports Weekly News Bulletin – ISSUE 28 Week of 18 August 2025
(1) Chengdu World Games concludes amid wide acclaim
The 12th World Games concluded in Chengdu on 17 August, marking a historic milestone for the quadrennial non-Olympic sports event.
(2) Hong Kong to invest up to an additional HK$30 million into National Games team
Hong Kong is injecting an additional HK$30 million (US$3.8 million) to support its National Games team, supplementing the previously allocated HK$15 million for training and logistics.
(3) Al-Nassr advance to Saudi Super Cup final
Al-Nassr secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Al-Ittihad under the floodlights of Hong Kong Stadium, advancing to the Saudi Super Cup final.
(4) India vs Pakistan: Sports Ministry issues strong policy, here’s what it means for Asia Cup 2025
India’s Sports Ministry has clarified its stance on sports relations with Pakistan, prohibiting bilateral events but allowing participation in international tournaments where both nations are present. Pakistani teams will be barred from competing in India.
(1) Chengdu World Games concludes amid wide acclaim
(Photo Credit: Xinhua)
The 12th World Games concluded in Chengdu on 17 August, marking a historic milestone for the quadrennial non-Olympic sports event. With 3,942 athletes from 116 countries competing across 34 sports, including traditional Chinese disciplines like dragon boat and wushu, the games set 18 world records and saw China top the medal tally with 36 golds, 17 silvers and 11 bronzes. International World Games Association (IWGA) President Jose Perurena praised Chengdu’s “impeccable delivery,” noting the city established new organisational benchmarks through its remarkable efficiency and warm hospitality. The closing ceremony at Chengdu International Friendship Pavilion symbolically passed the IWGA flag to Karlsruhe, Germany, host of the 2029 Games.
The Chengdu Games achieved significant cultural milestones by integrating Chinese heritage sports into the permanent World Games program. IWGA Vice-President Tom Dielen highlighted the inaugural torch relay and opening ceremony as transformative moments, while athletes lauded Chengdu’s unique blend of technology and tradition. A landmark Memorandum of Understanding between IWGA and Chengdu Sport University will establish a global research center to promote non-Olympic sports. The games also spurred grassroots participation, with Chengdu introducing niche sports like flag football and breaking to 130 schools and 1,000 communities, boosting local engagement in emerging sports to 18%.
Athletes from Argentina’s beach handball team to U.S. cheerleading champions described their Chengdu experience as “magnificent,” praising both the competition standards and cultural excursions like panda visits and Sichuan opera. The Games successfully popularized niche sports, with casting sports finding unexpected resonance among China’s angling enthusiasts. Volunteer Ran Jiaqing noted how exposure to unconventional sports ignited student interest, while city officials emphasised how pre-Games community programs created lasting sporting infrastructure. As Chengdu transitions into a post-Games era, its dual achievement of sporting excellence and cultural diplomacy sets a powerful precedent for future host cities.
News Source: https://www.chinadailyasia.com/hk/article/618047
(2) Hong Kong to invest up to an additional HK$30 million into National Games team
(Photo Credit: Dickson Lee)
Hong Kong is injecting an additional HK$30 million (US$3.8 million) to support its National Games team, supplementing the previously allocated HK$15 million for training and logistics. Sports Commissioner George Tsoi Kin-pan confirmed that local venues for the eight hosted events – including fencing, rugby sevens, and track cycling – have completed test runs and are fully prepared. With the Games set to begin on November 9, efforts over the next three months will focus on refining operational details, such as optimizing athlete access to facilities post-warm-up.
The 15th National Games, running until November 21, will feature over 400 events across 34 sports, with competitions spread across Hong Kong, Macau, and nine Guangdong cities. Hong Kong’s hosting duties include high-profile disciplines like triathlon and beach volleyball, showcasing the city’s capability to stage major multi-sport events. The government’s increased funding underscores its commitment to ensuring seamless execution and strong home-team representation.
The additional HK$20–30 million will cover athlete expenses such as accommodation and logistical support during the Games, further enhancing Hong Kong’s competitive edge. This investment reflects the city’s all-in approach to delivering a world-class event while bolstering its athletes’ performance. With preparations now in the final stages, officials are confident the Games will highlight Hong Kong’s role as a key sporting hub within the Greater Bay Area.
News Source: https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3322096/hong-kong-invest-additional-hk30-million-national-games-team
(3) Al-Nassr advance to Saudi Super Cup final
(Photo Credit: Reuters)
Al-Nassr secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Al-Ittihad under the floodlights of Hong Kong Stadium, advancing to the Saudi Super Cup final. Cristiano Ronaldo’s side dominated early, with Sadio Mané breaking the deadlock through a powerful volley that goalkeeper Al Shanqiti could only deflect. Despite Al-Nassr’s strong start, Steven Bergwijn’s clinical sliding finish before halftime levelled the score, setting up a tense second half.
The match took a dramatic turn moments after the restart when Mané received a straight red for a reckless challenge on Al Shanqiti, forcing Al-Nassr to play the remainder of the game with 10 men. Despite the numerical disadvantage, Al-Nassr struck on a lightning-fast counterattack, with João Félix delivering a composed finish to seal the win. The resilient performance showcased the team’s determination, even under adversity.
Attention now shifts to the second semifinal on August 21, where Al-Qadsiah and Al-Ahli will battle for the right to face Al-Nassr in the final on August 23. The tournament’s thrilling matches have highlighted Hong Kong’s growing reputation as a premier destination for high-profile football events, drawing global superstars and passionate fans alike.
News Source: https://news.rthk.hk/rthk/en/component/k2/1818933-20250819.htm
(4) India vs Pakistan: Sports Ministry issues strong policy, here’s what it means for Asia Cup 2025
(Photo Credit: AFP)
The Sports Ministry of India has outlined its policy regarding international events when it comes to Pakistan. As per the latest policy by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports (MYAS), India won’t engage in bilateral sports with Pakistan but will participate in international events where Pakistani teams are present. Additionally, teams from Pakistan will not be allowed to compete in India.
This development arrives amid growing public reaction to the India vs Pakistan match in the Asia Cup. The controversy stems from a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashimir, on April 22, in which 26 tourists were killed by weapons believed to be linked to Pakistan-based militants. In response, India carried out Operation Sindoor, targeting terrorist networks across the Line of Control and deeper into Pakistan. In the wake of this operation, tensions between the two neighbouring countries has continued to rise.
The Ministry also stressed that they are working towards making India more attractive for hosing major sporting events. The government is making it easier for athletes and sports officials to enter the country. International sports body officials can now get special multi-entry visas that last up to five years. This makes it simpler for them to travel to and within India.
News Source: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/more-sports/others/india-vs-pakistan-sports-ministry-issues-strong-policy-heres-what-it-means-for-asia-cup-2025/articleshow/123430854.cms
