Bangkok: Eight Thai sports teams have set their sights on winning a total of three gold medals at the upcoming 2026 Asian Games, as revealed during the inaugural "Meet the Press" event organized by the Sports Journalists and Photographers Association of Thailand.
According to Thai News Agency, the event, held at Rajamangala National Stadium, brought together representatives from eight sports associations to discuss their preparations for the 20th Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. Paitoon Chutimakornkul, President of the Sports Photojournalists Association of Thailand, emphasized the importance of these events in fostering dialogue among sports associations about readiness and expectations as they head into the games. The first "Meet the Press" event was attended by key sports figures, including Mr. Surasak Panjaroenworakul, Minister of Tourism and Sports.
Mr. Thana Chaiyaprasit, Vice President and Secretary General of the National Olympic Committee of Thailand, disclosed that a total of 986 athletes and officials will represent Thailand at the games. He highlighted the coordination efforts made to ensure the team's readiness, noting that any changes to the athlete lineup must be finalized by September 8th. The Thai women's football team will be among the first to compete, facing the host country on September 14th, followed by the men's team against Kyrgyzstan on September 16th.
Minister Surasak Panjaroenworakul stressed the significance of the event for assessing team readiness and pledged government support for the athletes. He acknowledged past budget challenges but assured that efforts are underway to secure necessary funding, emphasizing the commitment to ensuring that all qualified athletes can participate without budgetary constraints.
Chakraphan Naklada, Secretary-General of the Kurash Association of Thailand, expressed optimism in securing at least one gold medal, thanks to the team's preparation under experienced coaches from Uzbekistan. Similarly, Dr. Siricheth Poolthipayanon of the MMA Association of Thailand highlighted the potential for gold from Kanjuta Pataraboonsorn, while Captain Pitak Kampita from the Jujitsu Association shared hopes for gold in the women's event.
Representatives from other sports associations, including Wushu, Karate, Judo, Cycling, and Taekwondo, also shared their medal aspirations and challenges. Notably, "Coach Choe" Chatchai Chwe, head coach of the taekwondo team, discussed adapting to new competition rules and the strategic emphasis on aggressive play.
The press conference concluded with Mr. Paitoon Chutimakornkul summarizing the collective goal of achieving three gold medals across various sports. The next "Meet the Press" event is scheduled for August 26, 2026, featuring eight more sports associations, including Weightlifting and Archery, at the same venue.