SUDUTPANDANG.ID – The Asian Sepaktakraw Federation (ASTAF) is tightening the use of its Challenge Review Camera System ahead of the sepaktakraw competition at the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan.
In a written statement received on Tuesday (September 8, 2026), ASTAF said the policy was designed to improve the accuracy and transparency of refereeing decisions during the competition, which will run from September 20 to October 3, 2026.
The challenge system will be implemented under stricter guidelines to ensure that reviews of match decisions are conducted fairly and consistently.
The sepaktakraw competition is scheduled to take place at Paloma Mizuho Stadium in Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture.
The Challenge Review Camera System uses high-frame-rate cameras to capture players’ movements and key moments during matches. The footage allows officials to review specific incidents in greater detail when a challenge is made.
ASTAF and the International Sepaktakraw Federation (ISTAF) consider the technology an important tool to support referees, particularly in a sport known for its fast-moving ball and highly technical plays.
However, referees will remain responsible for applying and interpreting the Laws of the Game during matches.
Reducing Disputes
Sepaktakraw is one of the medal sports at the Asian Games and has attracted participation from an increasingly diverse group of Asian countries.
As competition for medals becomes more intense, consistent and transparent officiating is considered essential to maintaining confidence in the sport.
The stricter challenge procedures are expected to reduce disagreements over refereeing decisions and minimize potential disputes after matches.
ASTAF said accurate officiating has become increasingly important as public interest in sepaktakraw continues to grow through television broadcasts, digital platforms and social media during the Asian Games.
More countries are also developing the sport, increasing the level of competition and placing greater demands on the quality of officiating.
The use of camera-based reviews is intended to strengthen technological support for referees without replacing their authority or the application of the sport’s rules.
ASTAF said it remains committed to ensuring that the sepaktakraw competition at the Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games is conducted in accordance with international regulations and officiating standards.
The federation expects a more structured challenge system to contribute to more accurate and transparent decisions while strengthening confidence in the integrity of sepaktakraw officiating at the international level.(red)
