Controversy Erupts at Asian Games Baseball Match as Taiwanese Fans' 'Taiwan' Towel Is Stopped

At the Asian Games baseball semifinal in Nagoya today (25), a minor incident erupted in the stands during the match between Chinese Taipei and China. Taiwanese fans displayed towels printed with the word 'Taiwan' to support their team, but were stopped by venue staff who deemed the act a political expression.

The Taiwanese team, aiming for their first Asian Games baseball gold in 20 years, faced China in the Super Round. Late in the game, the incident unfolded when fans waved 'Taiwan'-labeled towels. Staff intervened, citing event regulations that prohibit political messages or items violating public order.

A Japanese-speaking female fan attempted to reason with staff, arguing that 'Taiwan' is not inherently political and demanding clearer rules. Staff maintained that, under operational guidelines, such displays were classified as political statements.

When warned that continued disturbance could lead to ejection for safety concerns, Taiwanese fans became further agitated. Some pointed at the Chinese national flag inside the venue, demanding its removal as well, stating, 'We believe that is also political—take it down too.'

The woman expressed feeling insulted, passionately questioning, 'Is this politics? Is Taiwan politics?' Staff repeatedly cited the event's operational judgment without offering further clarification. Fortunately, no spectators were ultimately removed from the venue.