Hong Kong is buzzing with anticipation as the city officially marked the one-year countdown on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, to its historic hosting of the 28th General Assembly of the Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC). This high-profile international gathering, coupled with the prestigious ANOC Awards, is slated to take place at the AsiaWorld-Expo from December 7 to 10, 2026.
The event is poised to be a pivotal moment for global sports, bringing together an estimated 1,200 delegates. These will include representatives from all 206 National Olympic Committees (NOCs), alongside the top leadership of International Federations, the International Olympic Committee (IOC), Organising Committees for future Olympic Games, Continental Associations, and other key stakeholders within the Olympic Movement.
A Testament to Hong Kong's Growing Sports Influence
Kenneth Fok Kai-kong, Vice-President of the Sports Federation and Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China (SF&OC), and President of the Organizing Committee for the 2026 ANOC General Assembly, emphasized the profound significance of hosting such an event. He described it as a "rare occasion where the world truly comes together" and a clear testament to Hong Kong's increasing participation and influence in the international sports arena.
This will be the first time Hong Kong has the honor of hosting the ANOC General Assembly, a fact that underscores the city's growing reputation as a hub for major international events. Beyond the immediate discussions, the assembly is expected to consolidate Hong Kong's status as an "events capital," showcasing its unique charm through the seamless synergy of sports, conventions, exhibitions, and tourism.
"This is about Hong Kong acting as the country's East-meets-West exchange pivot, enabling the international sports community to witness first-hand the vitality of our city," Fok stated during the countdown ceremony.
Key Discussions and a Packed Agenda
The agenda for the 28th ANOC General Assembly is packed with critical discussions that will shape the future of the Olympic Movement. A significant highlight will be the association's presidential election, a high-stakes decision that will steer ANOC's direction for the coming years.
High-level executive committee meetings will also be central to the proceedings. Delegates can expect comprehensive briefings from host countries about recent major sports events, offering valuable insights and lessons learned. Furthermore, there will be crucial discussions with future host countries, including Japan in anticipation of the 2026 Asian Games and the United States as it prepares for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
Beyond traditional sports governance, the assembly will delve into contemporary themes such as sports technology, global issues impacting the world of sports, and the rapidly rising profile of esports. These sessions reflect ANOC's commitment to addressing the evolving landscape of sports and athlete engagement.
A highlight of the assembly will also be the ANOC Awards ceremony, scheduled for December 8, 2026. This prestigious event celebrates outstanding sporting performances at the Olympic and Olympic Winter Games, honoring the world's best athletes and their remarkable achievements.
Preparations in Full Swing
Preparations for this monumental event are already well underway. The Sports Federation and Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China (SF&OC) has been working tirelessly, with SF&OC President Timothy Fok affirming the city's commitment to delivering an exceptional experience.
In May 2025, ANOC Secretary General Gunilla Lindberg led an ANOC Working Group to Hong Kong for a comprehensive visit. The group inspected the AsiaWorld-Expo, nearby hotels, and the Hong Kong International Airport to assess accommodation, transportation, reception, and related supporting facilities. They also discussed sustainable initiatives aimed at minimizing carbon emissions, showcasing a commitment to environmental responsibility.
The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government has pledged its full support for the General Assembly. Kevin Yeung, the Culture, Sports and Tourism Secretary, stated that the successful bid demonstrated international confidence in Hong Kong's capacity to host large-scale sports events, and that the government would fully support and guide the SF&OC.
To enhance the delegate experience, organizers are considering a packed schedule of tours of the city, potentially extending to other cities within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. This initiative aims to provide international attendees with a broader understanding and appreciation of the region's vibrancy. Furthermore, visa relaxation policies are now in place for international travelers visiting the Chinese mainland, which organizers hope to leverage to facilitate attendance and encourage regional exploration.
Partnership Opportunities
The ANOC General Assembly also presents unique opportunities for businesses to engage with the global Olympic community. ANOC has announced exclusive partnership packages across various tiers – Gold, Silver, and Bronze for the General Assembly, and Diamond and Ruby for the ANOC Awards. These packages offer businesses extensive visibility, networking opportunities with decision-makers, and digital promotion through ANOC's platforms, allowing them to align their brands with the values of the Olympic Movement.
As the one-year countdown begins, Hong Kong is gearing up to host an ANOC General Assembly that promises to be a landmark event for both the city and the international sports community, fostering collaboration, celebrating excellence, and shaping the future of global sports.
