Nagoya: Thailand is setting its sights on a top 6 finish at the 20th Asian Games, "Aichi-Nagoya 2026," which will take place from September 19th to October 4th, 2026, in Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture, Japan. The country's athletes have already begun arriving in Japan and are aiming for 15 gold medals in the competition.

According to Thai News Agency, Dr. Kongsak Yodmani, Governor of the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT), revealed that the Thai national team has been in continuous training since the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in 2025. The athletes are reportedly in good physical condition, and Thailand hopes to replicate its gold medal achievements from the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, China. The team is optimistic about its prospects in sports like teqball, boxing, and weightlifting, where they have previously excelled in the Olympics.

The Thai sepak takraw team, despite its past disappointments at the 33rd SEA Games, is believed to have strong potential and aims to secure all four gold medals in its category. Teqball also presents a promising opportunity for Thailand to clinch three gold medals. With strong contenders in weightlifting, boxing, e-sports, and sailing, Thailand believes it can achieve its target of 15 gold medals, which would likely ensure a top 6 finish. However, the host nation Japan, along with China, is expected to dominate the gold medal tally, potentially shifting the balance in Thailand's favor for a high ranking.

Dr. Kongsak further indicated that China and Japan are anticipated to lead in gold medal counts, with other strong competitors including South Korea, Iran, and India. Thailand will need to surpass these nations as well as Chinese Taipei, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan to reach its goal of being among the top six in Asia.