Asian Games Will Cancel Men's High Jump Qualifiers
The organizing committee will proceed directly to the final round on September 27.
Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Track & Field
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Will the removal of high jump qualifying rounds affect the outcome of the Asian Games final?
Organizers for the Asian Games canceled the men's high jump qualifiers after determining the small size of the field did not necessitate a preliminary round. The 16 athletes scheduled for the event will now advance directly to the final.
Why it matters
The decision to eliminate the qualifier simplifies the event schedule for the remaining participants. It allows the athletes to prepare exclusively for the final competition scheduled for September 27.
The men's high jump entry list contains 16 athletes. This adjustment follows previous competitive history, including Woo Sang-hyeok who previously placed 10th at the 2014 Incheon Asian Games.
The players
Woo Sang-hyeok
A high-performing athlete who previously secured silver medals at the 2018 and 2022 Asian Games.
Mutaz Essa Barshim
An elite high jumper who is expected to face off against Woo Sang-hyeok in the upcoming final.
The details
The tournament organizing committee coordinated the schedule change with the sports federation before informing each national team. Officials have confirmed that ticket holders for the canceled qualifier session will receive refunds.
Timeline
September 24, 2026: Original date of high jump qualifiers
September 27, 2026: Men's high jump final competition
Season Trajectory
The cancellation alters the competitive structure of the event by removing the preliminary hurdle for all 16 finalists. This streamlining focuses the field entirely on the September 27 final where top contenders like Woo Sang-hyeok and Mutaz Essa Barshim will vie for gold.
All 16 athletes now head directly to the September 27 final, ensuring fans see the full field of jumpers at once. Ticket holders for the now-canceled qualifier session will be contacted regarding refunds by the organizing committee.
The takeaway
The move to consolidate the men's high jump event highlights the impact of field size on tournament scheduling. Athletes and fans should adjust their expectations as the competition now hinges entirely on the final day of the event.
Further reading
For more on upcoming events, visit the Track & Field section.
Live Poll
Will the removal of high jump qualifying rounds affect the outcome of the Asian Games final?
