India secures hosting rights for 2026 Asian Rifle and Pistol Shooting Cup
India has been awarded the prestigious hosting rights for the 2026 Asian Rifle and Pistol Shooting Cup, marking another milestone for the country's growing stature in international shooting sports. The announcement was made by the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) following confirmation from the Asian Shooting Confederation (ASC).
The ASC’s executive committee officially granted the rights to the NRAI, solidifying India's position as a trusted host for top-tier shooting competitions. The NRAI has been asked to propose dates for the tournament. This development showcases India’s dedication to promoting shooting sports while providing its athletes with opportunities to excel on home soil against world-class competitors.
In a congratulatory letter to K. Sultan Singh, Secretary General of the NRAI, Eng. Duaij AlOtaibi, Secretary General of the ASC, stated (via The Bridge):
"We are pleased to inform you that the Executive Committee of Asian Shooting Confederation (ASC) has decided to grant the hosting rights of “Asian Rifle/Pistol Cup 2026” to your esteemed shooting association. We congratulate you on this occasion and wish you the very best in the preparations and successful organization of this competition."
Reacting to the news, K. Sultan Singh expressed his delight as well.
“We are delighted to have been allotted yet another top international Shooting competition. We are extremely grateful to the executive committee of the ASC and assure them of putting our best foot forward as always," he said.
Echoing his sentiment, NRAI president Kalikesh Singh Deo highlighted the significance of the decision, noting:
“It is yet another proof of the stature of Indian shooting in the international circuit and we are extremely pleased that our top guns will get another opportunity to sharpen their aim in front of home fans against the best in the world,"
India’s track record as host of shooting competitions
India has a rich history of hosting international shooting competitions, which adds credibility to its selection as the 2026 Asian Rifle and Pistol Shooting Cup host. Notable events include the 8th Asian Air Gun Championship in 2015 and the Asian Olympic Qualifiers in 2016.
Additionally, India has hosted six International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) tournaments, including two World Cup Finals, with the most recent being the ISSF World Cup Final for Rifle, Pistol, and Shotgun, held in New Delhi last month.
This latest achievement reaffirms India's prominence in the global shooting arena and ensures that Indian shooters will have another significant platform to compete at the highest level on home soil.