Organisers of the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games apologised on Tuesday for a travel mix-up that delayed Pakistan’s men’s volleyball match against Uzbekistan and forced South Korea to cancel a practice session.
Ayumi Sakamoto, a spokesperson for the local organising committee, addressed the incident at a press conference. “Yesterday, an incident occurred involving the Pakistan and South Korean men’s volleyball teams, who were staying at the same accommodation. Both teams boarded buses bound for the wrong destinations,” she said.
“We would like to offer our sincere apologies to both teams for the inconvenience this caused,” Sakamoto added.
The problem began on Monday. Pakistan’s players arrived at the wrong arena for their Pool A game against Uzbekistan. The mix-up delayed the start by 45 minutes. Pakistan captain Murad Jahan posted a video on Instagram about what he called “another mismanagement.”
South Korea’s players had to cancel their Monday morning practice ahead of their group game with Taiwan later that day.
Pakistan shrugged off the disruption and beat Uzbekistan 3-0 for their second straight win. South Korea went on to beat Taiwan 3-1.
Organisational problems have dogged the Games, especially accommodation and transport for more than 17,000 athletes and officials.
Organisers had already apologised for earlier transport and logistical issues.
