Bangkok: Thailand is expressing interest in bidding to host the 2029 Asian Youth Games, aiming to showcase its commitment to developing youth sports across the continent and enhancing its prospects of hosting the 2030 Youth Olympic Games.

According to Thai News Agency, Dr. Kongsak Yodmanee, the Governor of the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT), highlighted the opportunity for Thailand to bid for the 4th Asian Youth Games in 2029. This decision follows Cambodia’s inability to host the event due to non-compliance with the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) regulations. Dr. Kongsak emphasized that the bid is part of Thailand’s strategy to demonstrate its dedication to youth sports, thereby strengthening its case for hosting the 5th Youth Olympic Games in 2030.

Dr. Kongsak explained that the bid for the 2029 Asian Youth Games is not currently constrained by the year’s budget, allowing Thailand time to prepare. He noted that even if the bid does not succeed, showing commitment to promoting youth sports on a continental scale would underscore Thailand’s prioritization of youth sports development to the International Olympic Committee (IOC).

Additionally, Dr. Kongsak expressed gratitude towards the athletic foundations of provincial sports associations and the Sports Association of Thailand for their role in nurturing quality youth athletes. He cited the Thai national team’s achievement at the 2025 Asian Youth Games in Bahrain, where they won 15 gold medals and ranked fifth on the medal table, surpassing countries like Japan, South Korea, and India. This accomplishment will be highlighted to the IOC to demonstrate Thailand’s dedication to youth sports.