Asia Cup Bridge Championships 2026 Kicks Off in Goa with Global Participation
Inauguration of the 5th Bonus Asia Cup Bridge Championships
The 5th Bonus Asia Cup Bridge Championships 2026 commenced on Monday in Panaji, Goa, marked by a ceremonial launch.
Approximately 300 competitors from 46 teams across 16 nations and territories in the Asia Pacific and Middle East have convened for this significant international mind-sports event, as stated in an official release.
The opening ceremony beautifully blended Goan cultural elements with global sportsmanship, showcasing a Shigmo Parade, a Parade of Nations, and the Players’ Oath. Esteemed guests included Franck Riehm, President of the World Bridge Federation, Prasad Keni, President of the Bridge Federation of India, and H. M. Bangur, Chairman of Shree Cement Limited, along with officials from the Sports Authority of India and the Asia Pacific Bridge Federation.
Prasad Keni expressed that this championship is akin to the Asian Games for bridge. He noted, “With categories for men, women, mixed, and seniors adhering to World Bridge Federation standards, it signifies the pinnacle of competition. Hosting it in Goa is a proud moment for India as we welcome the best minds in bridge from across the continent, fostering friendships while celebrating the essence of the game.”
Franck Riehm praised India's involvement and the event's scale, stating, “This is an extraordinary championship, and Goa serves as an ideal backdrop. The size of this gathering underscores India’s rising prominence in the world of bridge. Over the coming days, we will witness the sport's elite competing at the highest level, demonstrating why bridge continues to captivate brilliant minds globally. India possesses immense potential in this sport, and by hosting such a prestigious event, it proves to be a vital player in the world of bridge.”
Sanctioned by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports and backed by the Sports Authority of India, the tournament is scheduled from June 21 to 27, 2026. Participating countries include Australia, Bangladesh, China, Chinese Taipei, Hong Kong China, Indonesia, Japan, Kuwait, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, and the host nation, India.
India enters the competition as the defending champion in several categories, having secured the Seniors Team Gold Medal and Women’s Pairs Gold at the last Asia Cup. This year's team, featuring Asian Games medallists and national champions, faces tough competition from Hong Kong China (Men’s Team Champions) and Indonesia (Women’s and Mixed Team Champions).
The event schedule includes qualification rounds from June 22-25, semi-finals and pairs qualifiers on June 26, culminating on June 27 with the Grand Team and Pairs Finals, Friendship Pairs, and a Prize Distribution ceremony.