TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Athletes competing in the upcoming World Masters Games (世界壯年運動會) in Taiwan's capital will not represent their countries but will instead compete under the International Masters Games Association banner (IMGA), Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an (蔣萬安) confirmed Friday (May 9). The clarification came in response to pointed questions from the Kuomintang (KMT, 國民黨), Taiwan's main opposition party, City Councilor Tseng Hsien-ying (曾獻瑩), who sought details about how Taiwan's flag and anthem would be handled during the international sporting event.
During a city council session, Councilor Tseng pressed for specifics about whether Taiwan's national symbols would appear during the Games' opening, closing, and medal ceremonies. Mayor Chiang flatly stated they would not be displayed. Lin Che-hung (林哲宏), who serves as CEO of the event's organizing committee, elaborated that participants compete as individuals rather than national representatives and are prohibited from displaying national flags during official ceremonies. Lin noted, however, that athletes face no restrictions regarding national symbols during informal post-award photographs.
The council session delved further into potential complications when Tseng inquired about competitors wearing apparel featuring national emblems or flags. Lin characterized this scenario as a "gray area" within the competition rules, indicating organizers would not implement rigid enforcement policies but would instead make determinations based on individual circumstances. Mayor Chiang reiterated the fundamental principle that since athletes participate as individuals rather than national representatives, they should refrain from displaying flags during award ceremonies.
Councilor Tseng expanded the discussion to potential political messaging on athletic apparel, specifically referencing the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict as a possible flashpoint. Lin reassured the council that the Games would adhere to Olympic protocols, with Taiwanese competitors using the designation "TPE" (Chinese Taipei) rather than Taiwan. Tseng emphasized the importance of clearly communicating these regulations to all participants to avoid controversies. Lin confirmed that competitors have already received notification of these guidelines, while Mayor Chiang pledged comprehensive preparation to ensure a smooth international event. ★
