Weightlifter Thach Kim Tuan is expected to qualify for the Tokyo Olympics 2020 in the men’s 61kg category. Photo 24h.com.vn

According to the National Sports Administration, the upcoming Games will feature the largest number of Olympic sports in the event's history.

“Following advice from Deputy Prime Minister Vu Duc Dam, we will feature all the Olympic sports at the SEA Games 31, along with several traditional sports,” said Tran Duc Phan, deputy director of the National Sports Administration.

The host country often tops the medals table by including a number of sports they are strong in, but Vietnam is aiming to create a fair event and leave a good image.

Shuttlecock, diving and vovinam (Vietnamese traditional martial arts) have been added to the list of events the country is strong in.

The region's biggest sporting event will feature 36 sports, two-thirds of which will feature at the Olympic Games and Asian Games.

Hanoi and some neighbouring localities host the events.

Vietnam enjoyed the best Games in its history last year, winning 98 gold, 85 silver and 105 bronze medals to rank second. VNS

Vietnam to host SEA Games 31 in 2021

Vietnam will host the 31st Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games 31), followed by the 11th ASEAN Para Games (Para Games 11) in 2021, as announced by Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc on November 14.