📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Mike Young
Sports
India defeats Pakistan at Asian Games amid handshake snub and delayed ceremony
✍️ Al Jazeera
🗓 04 Oct 2026, 04:33 AM
👁 8
India beat Pakistan at the Asian Games in Hangzhou, but the customary post‑match handshake was omitted and the medal ceremony was postponed.
India secured a victory over Pakistan at the Asian Games in Hangzhou, extending its winning streak in the rivalry. The match concluded with a clear margin, reinforcing India's dominance in the sport.
In a departure from tradition, the two teams did not exchange handshakes after the final whistle. Officials cited heightened security protocols and the intense atmosphere surrounding the high‑profile encounter as reasons for the omission.
The medal ceremony, which was scheduled to follow immediately, was also delayed. Organisers announced that the postponement was necessary to address logistical issues and to ensure the safety of athletes and officials before the awards could be presented.
The incident has sparked discussions among sports administrators about maintaining decorum while adapting to evolving security concerns at major international events.
In a departure from tradition, the two teams did not exchange handshakes after the final whistle. Officials cited heightened security protocols and the intense atmosphere surrounding the high‑profile encounter as reasons for the omission.
The medal ceremony, which was scheduled to follow immediately, was also delayed. Organisers announced that the postponement was necessary to address logistical issues and to ensure the safety of athletes and officials before the awards could be presented.
The incident has sparked discussions among sports administrators about maintaining decorum while adapting to evolving security concerns at major international events.