Not every storyline heading into a major Games is a positive one. Here are the setbacks that have shaped, and in some cases overshadowed, India’s build-up and early campaign at Asian Games 2026.
## A Wave of Pre-Games Doping Cases
India’s preparations were hit hard by a series of anti-doping cases across wrestling, athletics, shooting and wushu in the weeks before the Games began, with 12 athletes ultimately dropped, suspended or sidelined. Our full roundup of the doping cases covers every affected athlete in detail.
## Rishikanta Singh’s Late Withdrawal
Commonwealth Games silver medallist Rishikanta Singh was forced out of the weightlifting squad by a recurring knee injury just days before the Games began, leaving India without male representation in the discipline. Our dedicated update covers his story in full.
## Annu Rani Missing the Qualifying Mark
The reigning Asian Games javelin champion was left out of the squad after her season’s best throw of 57.50m fell just short of the 57.62m qualifying standard, a disappointing end to her title defence before it even began.
## Suchika Tariyal’s Contested Semi-Final
Tariyal’s bronze medal run in MMA included a controversial semi-final defeat to Singapore’s Hui Hoon Teo, a result she publicly disputed afterward. Our full breakdown of that semi-final covers exactly what happened.
## Travel and Accommodation Chaos
Beyond results on the field, India’s shooting contingent faced serious accommodation and transport delays on arrival in Nagoya, an off-field disappointment that added unwanted stress before competition even began. Our dedicated report covers the full story.
## The Bottom Line
Between doping setbacks, late withdrawals and logistical chaos, India’s build-up to Aichi-Nagoya 2026 has hardly been smooth. How much these disappointments ultimately affect the final medal count remains to be seen.