Bangkok: The Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) is diligently preparing the Thai national team for a series of major international competitions slated for 2026, including the Asian Games, Winter Olympics, and Youth Olympic Games. This follows the team's remarkable success at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games.
According to Thai News Agency, the Thai national team recently concluded its mission at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games, hosted in Thailand from December 9-20, 2025. The team secured its 14th consecutive gold medal victory, amassing a total of 233 gold medals, 154 silver medals, and 113 bronze medals. Dr. Kongsak Yodmani, Governor of the SAT, applauded the athletes, officials, and sports associations for their commendable performance and urged them to continue their pursuit of excellence with the upcoming 2026 competitions in mind.
The 2026 calendar is packed with significant events, starting with the 13th ASEAN Para Games in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand, from January 20-26. This will be followed by the 25th Winter Olympic Games in Milan-Cortina, Italy, running from February 6-22. Other prominent events include the 6th Asian Beach Games in Sanya, China, from April 22-30, and the 20th Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan, from September 19-October 4. The schedule continues with the 5th Asian Para Games in Nagoya, Japan, from October 18-24, the 4th Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal, from October 31-November 14, and concludes with the 6th Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from November 28-December 7.
Dr. Kongsak emphasized the importance of the 20th Asian Games in Japan, noting it as a pivotal event where Thailand must field a robust team. 'We hope to build on our SEA Games performance as a precursor to the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, USA,' he stated. The preparation will involve a training camp of approximately six months, focusing on quality through sports science, nutrition, and psychology to ensure athletes are in optimal condition. The target is to match or exceed the medal tally from the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, where Thailand achieved 12 gold, 14 silver, and 32 bronze medals.