Bangkok, Thailand is currently grappling with a significant financial challenge as it prepares to host the 33rd Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games) in late 2025. The nation faces a budget deficit of 459 million Thai Baht, equivalent to approximately $14.4 million USD, which is required to fully fund the comprehensive organization of this major regional sporting event.
Back in June, the Thai cabinet had initially approved a total budget of $64.6 million. This allocation was intended to cover the hosting expenses for both the 33rd SEA Games and the 13th ASEAN Para Games. Furthermore, local administrative bodies across Thailand were authorized to provide financial contributions or offer other forms of support for activities associated with the events, following requests from the organizing committee.
However, as of September 9, 2025, with a mere 90 days remaining until the start of the SEA Games, the necessary funding has yet to be fully secured. Mr. Kongsak Yodmanee, President of the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT), confirmed this shortfall in a statement to local media. “The budget designated for the SEA Games still requires an additional 459 million Baht. This deficit primarily stems from budget cuts imposed by the National Budget Department,” Mr. Yodmanee explained. He added that the requested supplementary funds are crucial to adequately cover the expanded number of sports, the expected influx of athletes, and higher operational costs associated with the scale of the event.
The delay in the complete allocation of funds may be linked to recent political shifts within Thailand. This includes the notable resignation of Mr. Sorawong Thienthong, the then Minister of Tourism and Sports, on September 8. Despite these governmental changes, Mr. Kongsak Yodmanee expressed confidence that Mr. Thienthong’s successor would prioritize the successful organization of the SEA Games.
To mitigate any potential disruptions, the Sports Authority of Thailand has proactively prepared all essential documentation to address urgent financial matters. This ensures that the overall planning and execution remain on schedule. All preparations are being meticulously coordinated with the National Budget Department, encompassing necessary adjustments related to the establishment of a new organizing committee following the recent governmental transition.
The 33rd Southeast Asian Games are officially scheduled to run from December 9 to December 20, 2025. The competitions will be distributed across three key Thai cities: Bangkok, Songkhla, and Chonburi. The event is anticipated to welcome approximately 12,500 athletes from 11 Southeast Asian nations, who will compete across 574 events spanning a total of 50 different sports.
