Bangkok: Thai sports associations have collectively submitted a protest letter to the Ministry of Sports, calling for a revision in the allocation of "fund budgets" citing inadequate funding that has led to significant difficulties.
According to Thai News Agency, the protest comes amidst a backdrop of financial constraints faced by various sports associations due to a reduction in funding from the National Sports Development Fund. The Elite Sports Development Division of the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) has reportedly seen its budget slashed from approximately 2 billion baht annually to just over 1 billion baht, severely impacting the ability of associations to conduct their activities. In response, nearly 90 sports associations have united to appeal to the Ministry of Tourism and Sports for a review and reallocation of funds.
At a recent meeting chaired by Associate Professor Pimol Srivikrom, President of the National Olympic Committee of Thailand, the challenges faced by sports associations were a key topic of discussion. The meeting was held at the National Olympic Committee of Thailand under the Royal Patronage (Baan Amphawan), where Her Royal Highness Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya was recognized as the Honorary Chairperson of the committee. Her Royal Highness conveyed her support and emphasized the importance of international engagement to enhance the development of national sports.
The meeting also addressed Thailand's bid to host the 5th Summer Youth Olympic Games in 2030, with discussions about meeting the significant financial requirements involved. A working group plans to meet with Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to assess the government's commitment to hosting the event, which requires a budget of around 6-7 billion baht.
"Big A" highlighted that the limited allocation of funds has made it challenging for sports associations to organize competitions, support athletes, and hold national championships. The fund's current structure, which dictates how much budget is allocated to the SAT for various projects, has been described as problematic. Efforts to address these issues through internal adjustments have so far been insufficient, necessitating the joint submission of a formal protest to the Ministry.
The president of the Thai Olympic Committee underscored the vital role of elite sports in bringing prestige to the country and suggested that government policy activities be reconsidered to prioritize support for athletes. With the upcoming SEA Games in 2025, the associations anticipate continued difficulties unless substantial changes are made to the fund allocation process.