OCA Expands Esports Program for 2026 Asian Games, Boosting India’s Medal Hopes
India’s Esports scene is set for a major upgrade as the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) has expanded the Esports lineup for the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, adding more medal opportunities for Indian gamers.
More Titles, More Opportunities
During its meeting in Harbin, China, the OCA Executive Board announced an expanded roster of 11 Esports titles, up from seven in 2022. The newly approved games include:
- Street Fighter 6
- Pokémon Unite
- Honor of Kings
- League of Legends – Asian Games Version
- PUBG – Asian Games Version
- Mobile Legends – Bang Bang
- Naraka: Bladepoint
- Gran Turismo 7
- eFootball Series
This expanded selection means six fresh titles will debut, while two from 2022 have been removed. Despite PUBG and Mobile Legends – Bang Bang still being banned in India, the updated lineup creates new opportunities for Indian Esports talent.
A Boost for India’s Medal Prospects
Lokesh Suji, Director of the Esports Federation of India (ESFI) and Vice President of the Asian Esports Federation (AESF), hailed the announcement:
“The OCA’s decision to expand the Esports program is a tremendous boost for India. It increases our chances of securing medals at Aichi-Nagoya 2026 and raises awareness among our youth about emerging titles.”
India’s Esports potential has been steadily rising. The ESFI has been scouting and nurturing talent through national tournaments and qualifiers. Recent achievements include:
- Silver Medal at the BRICS Esports Championship in Tekken 8
- Bronze Medal in eFootball at the Asian Esports Games 2024
Suji added:
“The addition of new titles will attract fresh talent and offer more opportunities for Indian gamers to compete at the highest level. It’s a fantastic step forward for the region’s Esports ecosystem.”
Esports on a Bigger Stage
Esports is gaining mainstream recognition in Asia. The sport will also feature in:
- The 3rd Asian Youth Games in Bahrain (2025)
- The inaugural Olympic Esports Games, hosted by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in partnership with Saudi Arabia’s National Olympic Committee later this year
What’s Next for India?
With a broader playing field and global acknowledgment growing stronger, India’s Esports industry stands on the brink of unprecedented growth. The 2026 Asian Games could become the launchpad for India’s next generation of gaming champions, setting new benchmarks for competitive gaming in the country.
