The Asian Games, which formally open in Hangzhou tonight, are one of the world’s biggest multi-sports events. The competition has been eagerly awaited and will bring much excitement as the region continues to recover from the pandemic. Almost 12,000 athletes from 45 countries and territories will compete in 40 sports. Thousands of journalists and numerous VIPs, including state leaders, are attending.

The scale of the event, postponed from last year because of Covid-19, is impressive. But the Games are being held at a time when global economic headwinds are making the hosting of big international sporting events a challenge. Victoria, in Australia, recently pulled out of staging the 2026 Commonwealth Games because of the huge costs involved. Alberta, in Canada, has dropped plans to bid for the 2030 event. The world is, therefore, watching the Asian Games with much interest.

Organisers have pledged that the event will be thrifty, green and hi-tech. Most of the 56 venues were already in use and have simply been upgraded. The flats in the Games village have been sold to those who will move in after the competition and the Asian Para Games that follow. The opening ceremony, attended by President Xi Jinping and Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu will not include a traditional fireworks display. Green energy, notably from solar power and wind, will be used to fuel the venues. The torch will be lit by digital as well as physical means and have zero carbon emissions.

Even before the official opening, some qualifying events and early matches have been played. Hong Kong has sent a record 680 athletes. Hopes are running high, especially with Olympic medal winners, fencer Cheung Ka-long and swimmer Siobhan Haughey, leading the way. But also keep an eye on the city’s young, emerging talent. The Asian Games will have added significance for some athletes, as they act as qualifiers in certain sports for the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics.