Thailand’s Tourism and Sports Minister, Sorawong Thienthong, has declared he will do everything possible to prevent Cambodia from competing in the 33rd Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games), which Thailand is hosting later this year.
Thienthong made these remarks on July 26, 2025, while visiting an evacuation center for those affected by border clashes in Ban Kruat and Lahan Sai districts, Buriram. He condemned Cambodia, claiming Thailand was the initial target of the cross-border conflict.
“As Minister of Tourism and Sports, I will do everything possible to prevent Cambodia from attending the 33rd SEA Games, which Thailand will host from December 9 to December 20, 2025,” he stated.
Thienthong expressed concerns that escalating conflicts could impact the SEA Games later this year. He specifically stated that Cambodian athletes traveling to Thailand for the event might face safety risks. Consequently, Thai authorities are discussing solutions, including boycotting or hindering Cambodia’s participation. This information was reported by Thai TV PBS on July 25, 2025.
