Panaji, June 22 -- The 5th Bonus Asia Cup Bridge Championships 2026 kicked off on Monday with a ceremonial launch here.

Nearly 300 players representing 46 teams from 16 countries and territories across Asia Pacific and the Middle East have gathered for one of the largest international mind-sports events ever hosted in India, as per a release.

The opening ceremony combined Goan cultural traditions with international sportsmanship, featuring a Shigmo Parade, Parade of Nations, and the Players' Oath. The event was launched in the presence of Franck Riehm, President of the World Bridge Federation, Prasad Keni, President of the Bridge Federation of India, and H. M. Bangur, Chairman of Shree Cement Limited, alongside officials from the Sports...