India Aims for Record Medal Count in Athletics at 2026 Asian Games

Anju Bobby George, a former long jumper and India's first World Athletics Championships medallist, is optimistic about India's athletics prospects at the 2026 Asian Games. She believes the country can achieve between 30 to 32 medals, surpassing its previous tally of 29 from the 2023 Games. Despite the absence of javelin stars Neeraj Chopra and Annu Rani, Anju highlights strong medal contenders in jumps and long-distance events. She emphasizes the importance of competition among athletes like Ancy Sojan and Shaili Singh, who are both capable of impressive performances. With new training policies and increased domestic competitions, the future looks bright for Indian athletics as they prepare for the upcoming Games in Japan.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 20, 2026, 11:41 IST

India's Ambitious Medal Goals

Anju Bobby George with Ancy Sojan

Guwahati, Sept 20: Former long jumper Anju Bobby George, who made history as India's first medallist at the World Athletics Championships, expressed optimism about India's athletics prospects at the upcoming 2026 Asian Games. She believes the nation could secure between 30 to 32 medals, surpassing its previous tally.

During the 2023 Asian Games held in Hangzhou, India achieved a remarkable 29 medals in athletics. Anju, who also holds a significant role in the Athletics Federation of India (AFI), is confident that the team can improve its performance, even in the absence of star javelin throwers Neeraj Chopra and Annu Rani.

“It’s unfortunate that both javelin medalists are not competing. Neeraj's situation is particularly disappointing as he returned from injury only to face another setback,” Anju remarked during a virtual session organized by a sports network with select media.

She highlighted that India has strong medal contenders in various disciplines, especially in jumps, middle- and long-distance running, and relay events.

“Our athletes excel in jumps, both in men's and women's categories. We also have promising contenders in middle and long-distance events, including Avinash Sable and others,” she noted.

Anju anticipates a higher medal count than in the previous games, estimating around 30 to 32 medals, with strong prospects in nearly every event, particularly relays where India has historically performed well.

While she refrained from pinpointing specific athletes or events as the strongest chances for medals, she expressed confidence in women's long jumpers Ancy Sojan and Shaili Singh, both of whom have the potential to achieve jumps over seven meters.

Ancy recently broke a 22-year-old national record and has consistently jumped over 6.70 meters, while Shaili is a World U20 medallist.

“I believe both Shaili and Ancy can surpass the seven-meter mark,” Anju stated.

She emphasized that the rivalry between the two jumpers is beneficial for their development, although Shaili's youth means she still needs to work on her consistency.

“Ancy is a fierce competitor, while Shaili is following the guidance we provide. However, she needs to stabilize her approach,” Anju explained.

Additionally, Anju pointed out improvements in India's athletics training framework, allowing athletes to choose their coaches and training locations.

“Athletes now have the freedom to train with any coach and at any venue, without needing to relocate from their home base,” she added.

The federation has also expanded domestic competitions to over 40 events across four regions, enhancing athletes' exposure to competitive environments closer to home.

Looking to the future, Anju mentioned that the AFI has initiated gene testing for both established and emerging athletes to scout talent for the 2036 and 2040 Olympic Games.

“These initiatives are transformative for athletics. We are planning well ahead for the 2036 Olympics, aiming for multiple medals,” she concluded.

India achieved its highest-ever medal tally at the Asian Games in 2023, with a total of 107 medals, including 28 gold, 38 silver, and 41 bronze, of which athletics contributed 29 medals.

The 2026 Asian Games are scheduled to take place in Japan from September 19 to October 4.