Vietnam aims to rank in the top 20 at ASIAD 2026

Following a triumphant 2025, Vietnamese sports step into 2026 with the major challenge of competing at the Asian ASIAD Games.

Building on the outstanding achievements of 2025, Vietnamese sports are entering 2026 ready to face the biggest challenge: the 20th Asian Games – ASIAD 20. The continental arena is always a true measure of the level and depth of each sports system, and this time, Vietnam’s goal is not just individual results but to place within the top 20 leading nations overall.

According to plans, ASIAD 20 will be held from September 19 to October 4 in Aichi - Nagoya, Japan. Instead of chasing the sheer number of medals as in regional games, Vietnamese sports focus on quality and sustainability. Striving to reach the Top 20 in the overall medal tally is considered a significant milestone, reflecting a well-planned and profound ambition to rise on the continental stage.

To achieve this goal, the sports sector is undergoing a strong restructuring of investment. Financial and human resources are concentrated on key disciplines with potential for gold medals at ASIAD, such as shooting, weightlifting, taekwondo, karate, rowing, and athletics. Simultaneously, the application of sports science, sports medicine, and data analysis in training is intensified to close the gap with powerhouses like China, Japan, and South Korea.

Not only focusing on professional skills, the policies for coaches and athletes’ benefits have also been significantly improved. From February 15, 2026, Decree 349 officially takes effect, raising allowances for meals, training wages, and special nutrition regimes. This is seen as an important boost, providing conditions for athletes to train and compete with peace of mind over the long term.

The foundation for this ambition comes from an impressive 2025. At SEA Games 33, Vietnam’s sports delegation ranked 3rd overall with 87 gold medals. Notably, the proportion of medals from Olympic and ASIAD sports increased significantly, reflecting a correct shift in investment strategy rather than focusing too much on regional sports.

Men’s football also contributed to the exciting atmosphere during a golden period under coach Kim Sang Sik, winning the ASEAN Cup, U23 Southeast Asia Championship, SEA Games 33, and a bronze medal at the U23 Asian Championship. These achievements not only represent titles but also boost confidence for the entire national sports system ahead of the ASIAD 20 campaign.

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