SPORTS

First-ever WFADS Asian Championship Cup 2026 held in India

Thursday, 14 May, 2026
This pioneering initiative marked the large-scale introduction of Acrobatic Rock & Roll and Acro Swing. (Photo courtesy: organiser/Media net Works)

New Delhi: In a defining moment for the evolution of dance sport in Asia, the World Federation of Acrobatic Dances and Dance Sports, in association with the National Federation of Acrobatics and Dance Sport India, hosted the WFADS Asian Championship Cup 2026 in India.

This pioneering initiative marked the large-scale introduction of Acrobatic Rock & Roll and Acro Swing, blending high-performance sport with artistic expression in a dynamic and competitive format.

The groundbreaking event was graced by Chief Guest Minister Ashish Sood. Blessing the participants with their gracious presence were the Guests of Honour, Gaurav and Khushbu from the Manthan Gymnastics Academy. 

Present at the event were also Special Guests including Shri Bikramjeet Singh Cheema, VP BJP Punjab, HS Phoolka, Advocate and former Member of the Punjab Legislative Assembly and Manoj Sethi.

Witnessing participation from over 120 athletes representing various states across India, including Uttarakhand, Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Rajasthan, Chandigarh, Haryana, Punjab and Uttar Pradesh, the event served as the official selection platform for Indian athletes. The second half of the day featured the Asian Championship, where top talent from across Asia competed on a prestigious continental stage.

The WFADS Asian Championship Cup 2026 witnessed thrilling performances and exceptional talent across categories, with athletes from across Asia delivering world-class routines in Acrobatic Rock & Roll and Acro Swing.

In the winner categories were Rock and Roll Formation Women: Zhastar — Kazakhstan; Rock and Roll A Class Adults: Enthtur Chinguun & Shanina Ekaterina — Mongolia; Rock and Roll B Class Adults: Yashanov Kirill & Dossaliyeva Ayana — Kazakhstan; and  Acro Swing Adults: Samir Kumar & Priyanshi Mathur — India.

The event also witnessed participation from nearly 100 international athletes representing Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Mongolia, Vietnam, China, and India.

Jasmeet K. Shan, President, NFADI said: "The WFADS Asian Championship Cup 2026 is not just an event—it is the beginning of a movement that positions India at the forefront of a globally recognized dance sport. By introducing Acrobatic Rock & Roll and Acro Swing at scale, we are creating a dynamic ecosystem for athletes, performers, and youth across the country. This platform bridges sport and art, discipline and expression, while opening pathways for international recognition and Olympic ambition. India is ready to embrace this revolution."

Oumy Sene, VP Expansion, WFADS, added: "Asia is a key growth region for acrobatic dance sports, and India has the energy and talent to lead this expansion. This championship marks a strategic step in building a strong international presence."