PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/Dehradun
The athletes who will achieve the World Cup standard time at the upcoming Asian Open Short Track Speed Skating Trophy 2026 in Dehradun will earn a spot in the World Cup. Informing this, the president of Ice Skating Association of India (ISAI) president Amitabh Sharma said while addressing the media here on Wednesday that
the Asian Open would be held from August 17 to 20 at the Himadri Ice Rink, Maharana Pratap Sports Complex, Dehradun. Notably, this is the second consecutive year that India is hosting the Asian Open, underscoring Dehradun’s growing profile as a hub for international ice sports and short track speed skating in Asia.
The championship is expected to feature 14 countries. Confirmed participants include those from Hong Kong, Thailand, Vietnam, Philippines, Singapore, Australia, Mongolia, Malaysia, Chinese Taipei, Indonesia, Uzbekistan, China, South Korea and the host India, he said.
Sharma further said that more than 270 athletes along with 102 coaches, referees and officials have already confirmed participation, making it one of the largest short track speed skating events ever held in the country.
Highlighting the global outreach, he said that the event would be streamed live and free on YouTube to give international visibility to Indian ice sports. “Entry for spectators will also be free throughout the competition,” he added
Sharing more, he said that hosting the Asian Open for the second consecutive year is a matter of great pride for India and for Uttarakhand. “This championship is not only about competition; it is about building a stronger future for short track speed skating in our country. The participation of leading Asian nations, including China and South Korea, reflects the growing stature of this event and the confidence the international skating community has in India,” he stated.
He added that the objective is to give Indian athletes world-class exposure on home ice and create a sustainable pathway to higher ISU events and future international success.
“Last year, two Indian athletes qualified for the World Cup. Similarly, this year, athletes who meet the World Cup standard timing during the competition will be part of the World Cup,” Sharma said.
