Sheikh Joaan Elected OCA President, Unveils Vision for Unity

TASHKENT, UZBEKISTAN – Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani has been elected as the 22nd President of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) during the 46th OCA General Assembly held on January 26, 2026. This significant development marks a pivotal moment for the Olympic Movement in Asia, which has its roots dating back to the first multisport Games in 1913.

The election took place in the capital city of Tashkent, where representatives from all 45 Asian National Olympic Committees (NOCs) were present, alongside Uzbekistan’s President, HE Shavkat Mirziyoyev. Sheikh Joaan, who also holds the position of Senior Vice President of the Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC), expressed his commitment to the Olympic ideals through his vision, titled “Together for Asia.”

Vision for Development and Solidarity

In his inaugural address, Sheikh Joaan outlined several key objectives aimed at enhancing the Olympic landscape in Asia. His vision emphasizes:

• Strengthening solidarity and development across Asia
• Supporting athletic excellence
• Promoting good governance
• Embracing innovation responsibly
• Ensuring OCA events are sustainable, inclusive, and credible
• Increasing international representation to advocate for Asia’s interests
• Positioning sport as a universal language of peace and cultural understanding

Sheikh Joaan remarked, “Asia is the largest and most diverse continent within the Olympic family. This diversity is our greatest strength. But it also requires us to work in unity, guided by mutual respect and our shared commitment to the Olympic values. Through unity, we transform diversity into opportunity. We empower our National Olympic Committees and provide a platform for our youth to excel on the world’s sporting stage.”

He concluded his address with a call to action: “Together, let’s work towards a more united, stronger, and successful OCA. Together for Asia.”

Transition of Leadership

Sheikh Joaan’s election comes following the resignation of former OCA President Randhir Singh, who stepped down for health reasons. In recognizing Singh’s contributions, Sheikh Joaan expressed his gratitude: “I wish to express my sincere appreciation to my dear friend His Excellency Mr. Raja Randhir Singh for his leadership, vision, and tireless efforts during challenging times.”

This new leadership is expected to propel the OCA towards its goals, fostering unity among the diverse nations of Asia while promoting sporting excellence. Sheikh Joaan’s vision is set against a backdrop of continued growth and development within the Olympic Movement, paving the way for future successes in upcoming international competitions.

The Olympic Council of Asia plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and spirit of the Olympic Games in the region, and under Sheikh Joaan’s presidency, it aims to enhance its commitment to the athletes and nations it represents.

Credit: OCA Press Release