Raksha Khadse Reviews Preparations for Asian Fencing Championship 2026

The Asian Senior Fencing Championships 2026 marks a historic moment for Indian sport, as the country hosts the prestigious continental competition for the first time.

Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Raksha Khadse has reviewed preparations for the Asian Senior Fencing Championships 2026, which will be held at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi from 19 to 24 June. During her visit, the Minister inspected competition venues, athlete facilities, technology-enabled officiating systems and other arrangements being made for the continental event. She was accompanied by Fencing Association of India President Satej Patil and Secretary General Rajeev Mehta.

The championship will begin with an opening ceremony on 19 June at Hall No. 2-3 of Bharat Mandapam. The event, themed "One Dream | One Blade | One Pride", will celebrate sporting excellence, international friendship and the growing popularity of fencing across Asia. Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Dr Mansukh Mandaviya will attend the ceremony as the chief guest alongside leading international sports administrators from the global fencing community.

First-Time Host India Welcomes Athletes from 36 Nations

The Asian Senior Fencing Championships 2026 marks a historic moment for Indian sport, as the country hosts the prestigious continental competition for the first time. The event is expected to attract participants from 36 countries, bringing together some of Asia's top fencing talent. Organisers have issued 787 accreditations, including 406 athletes, 75 coaches, managers, support staff, delegates, volunteers and local organising committee personnel.

Officials believe the championship will provide Indian fencers with valuable exposure by allowing them to compete against some of the best athletes in the region on home soil.

The event is also expected to raise the profile of fencing in India and encourage greater participation in the sport among young athletes.

Technology and Infrastructure at the Heart of the Event

While reviewing preparations, Khadse examined the advanced sports technologies and world-class infrastructure being deployed for the championship. She noted that modern technology has become increasingly important in athlete training, performance analysis and competition management, helping sportspersons improve their performance and compete more effectively at the international level.

Speaking during the visit, the Minister said India is steadily strengthening its position as a global sporting destination under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. She highlighted the role of the Khelo Bharat Niti 2025 in expanding sports infrastructure, supporting athletes and creating opportunities to host major international events.

According to Khadse, competitions of this scale contribute to sporting excellence while helping build a stronger and more dynamic sports ecosystem. She added that hosting international events aligns with the broader goals of athlete-centred development, technology integration and increased global engagement outlined in the national sports policy.

The Minister expressed confidence in the country's readiness to host the championship and praised the efforts of the Fencing Association of India, technical officials and organising teams. She also extended her best wishes to all participating athletes and said the tournament would strengthen sporting cooperation across Asia while promoting the growth of fencing in India.