Yoo Seung-min (Chairman) delivers direct criticism: "Asian Games operations, if graded by score, would be an 'F' (failing grade)" [Nagoya Field Report]

*This content was translated by AI.

"If mistakes occur due to disruptions in athletes' routines, they should naturally receive a failing grade."

Yoo Seung-min, President of the Korean Olympic Committee, sharply criticized the overall operations of the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya (Japan) Asian Games, which had been surrounded by various controversies even before the opening ceremony. He stated that if graded numerically, it would be an "F" (the lowest possible score).

In an interview held at the Main Media Center (MMC) in Nagoya, Japan, on the 24th, Yoo Seung-min (Chairman) responded to a reporter's question asking him to rate the overall operations of this tournament compared to events he experienced as an athlete: "If there are grades from A to C, I would want to give a C. But if an F is possible, then an F must be given."

When asked by reporters whether it could be said that the tournament was nearly the worst compared to those he had participated in, Yoo (Chairman) replied, "I believe not only I but many others feel this way. Before being someone who engages in sports diplomacy, I am a representative of South Korean sports. I simply conveyed what the athletes are feeling."

In fact, from the early stages of this tournament, numerous controversies emerged, including cruise ship and container-based accommodation facilities and the quality of meals for athletes. Even within Japan, criticism of the overall tournament operations has been relentless. The South Korean delegation also suffered various setbacks, such as the basketball national team being unable to conduct training at all due to buses not arriving, and a bus carrying the football national team mistakenly heading toward a baseball stadium.

Yoo Seung-min (Chairman) stated, "Of course, it is true that things are improving compared to the early stages. In any Olympics or Asian Games, there are always issues in the beginning." However, he added, "But here, there were far too many such issues at the start. Especially, issues affecting athletes' performance must not exist. That is a very frustrating issue and should never have occurred."

He continued, "For example, if mistakes occur due to disruptions in athletes' routines—such as problems with bus scheduling or practice facilities—they should naturally receive a failing grade. We understand and accept issues that arise before preparations are complete, but we believe it is necessary to voice criticism when operational errors occur that could hinder athletes' performance."

Yoo Seung-min (Chairman) emphasized, "I understand that many concerns and worries have arisen due to numerous external issues beyond those affecting the delegation. From our practical support standpoint as well, many situations warrant serious concern, so we remain vigilant. We will do everything possible to provide positive support so that our proud representative athletes can fully showcase their performances until this tournament concludes."

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*This content was translated by AI.