Thailand, host of the 2025 SEA Games, is considering banning Cambodia from participating, out of concern for the safety of Cambodian athletes travelling to Thailand, as both countries remain locked in deadly border clashes.
Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong said Thai authorities will need to deliberate about Cambodia’s participation in the games, scheduled for this December, and acknowledged that a boycott of Phnom Penh is a possibility.
“I am worried about the escalating violence, following the clashes between Thailand and Cambodia. It could impact Thailand’s role as SEA Games host, especially regarding the safety of Cambodian athletes during the event,” Sorawong said.
Prior to these recent clashes, Cambodia had confirmed its intention to send 1,515 athletes and officials to the games. Since the violence erupted, however, there has been no further statement or engagement from the Cambodian side.
Back in June, Vath Chamroeun, secretary-general of the National Olympic Committee of Cambodia (NOCC), claimed that the border dispute would not affect the 33rd SEA Games in Bangkok. He also reassured the public that Cambodian athletes were continuing their preparations as planned.
Sorawong noted that Cambodia withdrew from the inaugural SEA Games 66 years ago, during the Preah Vihear Temple dispute with Thailand. When it was later scheduled to host the 3rd SEA Games, it cancelled the event for the same reason.
Given the current tensions, the minister warned that there is a strong possibility that Cambodia may either withdraw or be barred from participating in the 2025 SEA Games in Thailand.
Read more:
- LIVE: Thai-Cambodian border clashes
- Timeline : Neighbours at war
