OCA Director General praises China for smooth, safe 2026 Sanya Asian Beach Games

The 2026 Asian Beach Games will wrap up in Sanya, south China's Hainan Province, on Thursday evening, with the organizers drawing praise for putting on a smooth and resilient event.

Husain Al-Musallam, Director General of the Olympic Council of Asia, told CGTN Sports Scene's Shen Xiang that the sixth edition of the Asian Beach Games stood out for its organization, safety standards and long-term impact.

"I think the most important thing to remember is that we had two days of heavy rain and a typhoon, but it did not affect the Games," Al-Musallam said. "Everything was rescheduled accordingly, there were no delays and no injuries. That's why I call this a 'safe' Games."

The Sanya Asian Beach Games marked the first time for Hainan to host a continental-level beach sports event, as well as the first major international sporting competition staged in the province since the launch of the Hainan Free Trade Port last December.

Al-Musallam also highlighted the event's sustainability focus and operational delivery.

"After six years of waiting, we finally see it come to life. It has been a fantastic Games, with a strong emphasis on being green, safe and environmentally friendly," he noted. "The facilities are temporary and recyclable, and the volunteers have been outstanding. Athletes from 45 National Olympic Committees came here, enjoyed the competition and will leave with wonderful memories. Most importantly, there will be a lasting legacy for Sanya."

Host nation China fielded a 255-member delegation, including 171 athletes competing across 60 events in 13 sports – the country's highest-ever rate of participation in the Asian Beach Games.

Speed climber Zhou Yafei has been named China's flagbearer for the closing ceremony.