The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) has unveiled its qualification norms for the Asian Games 2026, choosing to announce the criteria well in advance to give athletes clarity on their targets. Explaining the rationale to the media, an AFI spokesperson said the early announcement was aimed at helping athletes plan their seasons without ambiguity.
Among the key decisions, the Interstate Athletics Championships will serve as the final selection trials for both the Commonwealth Games (CWG) and the Asian Games. To be eligible for the Interstates, athletes must compete in at least two national-level competitions and one State meet. Failure to meet this requirement will result in disqualification from the final trials.
AFI officials clarified that this rule has been introduced to discourage athletes from peaking early merely to breach qualification marks and then underperforming at major championships. The standards themselves have sparked debate, with several athletes pointing out that in at least three events, the qualification benchmark requires bettering the national record.
Responding to the criticism, AFI official Adille said the standards were intentionally set high. “We don’t want to take passengers to the Games,” he said, adding that only athletes capable of challenging for podium finishes should qualify.
However, uncertainty remains around the Commonwealth Games selection criteria, which is yet to be officially announced, despite the CWG being scheduled just a month before the Asian Games. While there is no formal confirmation, AFI is reportedly considering selecting teams for both events from the Interstate Championships. Whether this will mean separate squads or overlapping teams is still unclear.
AFI has made it clear that the Asian Games is the priority for the season, though the Commonwealth Games continues to hold importance due to the quality of competition, with strong nations such as England, Jamaica, and South Africa in the fray.
THE PEAKING DILEMMA
The biggest concern emerging from the new framework is the challenge of multiple peaking. The AFI calendar includes three major domestic competitions: the Federation Cup, Interstates, and Open Nationals. Athletes must compete in at least two competitions to be eligible for the Federation Cup, and at least three competitions, including a State meet, to take part in the Interstates and Open Nationals.
In effect, athletes are required to participate in a minimum of six national-level competitions, with at least three directly linked to Asian Games qualification.
nnis Sports spoke to several coaches to understand the impact of this structure. Opinions were divided.
The Interstate Championships are scheduled from July 8 to 12, 2026, followed closely by the Commonwealth Games from July 23 to August 2, and the Asian Games from September 19 to October 4.
A coach who primarily works with budding athletes expressed strong reservations. “Nothing is clear about how the Commonwealth Games team will be selected,” he said. “What is the point of finalising the Asian Games team at the Interstates in July? Athletes will give their best-ever performance there. If they qualify, how do they maintain peak form for two months? At best, an athlete can hold peak performance for three weeks. This system favours elite athletes, not those trying to break through for the first time.”
In contrast, a coach who trains elite athletes welcomed the move. “It’s a very good decision,” he said. “AFI has ensured that only genuine, consistent athletes succeed, not one-time performers. Competing in six to eight competitions before major championships is normal globally. More competition matures athletes and prepares them to deliver when it matters most.”
As Indian athletics enters a crucial qualification phase, AFI’s high benchmark, high competition approach has set the stage for a season that promises both opportunity and intense debate