rki.news | Sources Xinhua
Nagoya: Nagoya Mayor Ichiro Hirosawa apologized Wednesday to athletes affected by organizational problems at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, following complaints about accommodation and transportation.
Hirosawa, who also serves as deputy president of the local organizing committee, acknowledged shortcomings and said organizers must sincerely reflect on the difficulties experienced by athletes and teams.
The Games have faced criticism over inadequate accommodation, transport disruptions and communication problems. Unlike previous editions, organizers did not establish an athletes’ village as part of efforts to reduce costs.
Participants have instead been accommodated in temporary wooden units, hotels and a cruise ship. Some teams reportedly complained that cabins were unsuitable, including concerns over bed sizes.
Transportation has also caused difficulties, with buses reportedly arriving late, failing to appear or taking athletes to incorrect venues. Some competitors were stranded for hours at Nagoya airport after arriving on Sept. 19.
The organizing committee had already apologized Saturday and pledged to strengthen accommodation and transportation operations for the remainder of the Games.
The Asian Games are being held across Nagoya and Aichi Prefecture and are scheduled to conclude Sunday.
Nagoya Mayor Apologizes Over Asian Games Organization Problems
