Phnom Penh, Cambodia – Cambodia has officially secured its position as the host nation for the 2031 Asian Youth Games (AYG 2031), following the signing of a pivotal agreement with the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA). The formal contract was inked in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, on January 26, 2026, solidifying the commitment for the upcoming multi-sport event.
The significant signing ceremony was conducted by Mr. Vath Chamroeun, who serves as the Secretary General of the National Olympic Committee of Cambodia (NOCC), representing Cambodia’s interests. He was joined by Timothy Fox, the Acting President of the OCA.
Mr. Chamroeun elaborated on the nature of this agreement, explaining that it represents a standard operating mechanism crucial for the organization of the 2031 Youth Multi-Sports Event. This comprehensive contract clearly delineates the responsibilities between the event owner and the host nation, ensuring adherence to international sports standards. Its primary aim is to confirm and guarantee the seamless and successful execution of the games, which are anticipated to draw participation from all 45 Olympic member states.
The NOCC Secretary General further emphasized Cambodia’s steadfast commitment to meticulously fulfill all its obligations as the host of the 2031 Asian Youth Games. He highlighted the profound significance of this event, describing it as a new historical milestone for Cambodia. Furthermore, hosting the games aligns with and celebrates the nation’s ambition to achieve a high-average economy by the year 2030.
It was also revealed that Cambodia had initially planned to host the Asian Youth Games in 2029. However, the Olympic Council of Asia requested a change in the hosting year to 2031. This alteration was proposed by the OCA to extend the preparation period for the event from two years to four years, a measure intended to ensure more thorough planning and execution. Both the Cambodian government and the NOCC promptly agreed to this revised schedule.
The request for the date change was formally presented and discussed during a meeting of the Olympic Council of Asia’s Executive Committee, which took place on October 21. This meeting occurred just one day prior to the opening ceremony of the third Asian Youth Sports Event held in Bahrain, providing the backdrop for this strategic decision.
