2026 Presidential Cup National Sports Event Launches; Minister Lee Yang Hopes to Provide a Stage for All Generations

(Central News Agency reporter Li Jianzhong, Taipei, 11th) The 2026 Presidential Cup National Sports Event held its launch press conference today, announcing the expanded street dance competition and 3x3 basketball tournament. Sports Minister Lee Yang stated his hope that different generations can find their suitable stage and ignite a sports craze together.

Building on the national enthusiasm generated by last year's inaugural event, this year's competition scale continues to expand. The street dance competition will, for the first time, span the northern, central, southern, eastern, and outlying island regions, holding six regional preliminaries. The 3x3 basketball tournament will expand to all 22 counties and cities across Taiwan, allowing basketball enthusiasts nationwide to enjoy the passion of street basketball.

During his speech, Lee Yang joked, "Time flies so fast. I still remember the first Presidential Cup National Sports Event was the first major event I oversaw after taking office as Sports Minister. I can't believe we're already at the second edition."

He mentioned that through the continuous promotion of national sports, he hopes people from all generations can find their suitable stage and together ignite a national sports craze.

Lee Yang emphasized that 3x3 basketball has already won a gold medal at the Asian Games, and breakdancer Sun Zhen competed on the highest stage at the 2024 Paris Olympics. "This shows these two sports are very popular in Taiwan. I hope this year's event can gather energy and enthusiasm from local governments all the way to the Presidential Office Plaza," he said.

The finals for both the street dance competition and the 3x3 basketball tournament will be held at Ketagalan Boulevard in front of the Presidential Office. The total prize money is NT$5.9 million. In addition to the U12, U18, and Open categories, the street dance competition this year adds a "Senior Inclusive Group" to encourage participation from people aged 55 and over, as well as those with disabilities.

Furthermore, the 3x3 basketball tournament has added a Masters' Group for those aged 40 and over, and a Para Wheelchair Basketball Group, aiming to allow more people of different ages to step onto the court. (Editor: Lung Po-an) 1150611