Bangkok: The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT), the National Olympic Committee of Thailand, and the National Sports Development Fund, held the closing ceremony for the Bangkok Provincial Championship Competition Project for the fiscal year 2026. Under the theme "United Hearts to Cheer on Thai Athletes at the 2026 Asian Games," the event took place on September 9, 2026, at the Ratchaphruek Club, Lak Si District, Bangkok.
According to Thai News Agency, this event, in addition to concluding the provincial-level competition, served as a platform to showcase the collaborative efforts of all sectors in developing Thai sports. From youth and local levels to the development of athletes for the national team, the event aimed to send encouragement to the Thai national team before entering the 2026 Asian Games.
The event was attended by executives from government agencies, sports organizations, sports personnel, athletes, and distinguished guests, amidst an atmosphere of pride following the successful Bangkok Provincial Championship. This success reflected the importance of building a strong foundation to discover and develop new generations of athletes.
Mr. Surasak Panjaroenvorakul, Minister of Tourism and Sports, stated that this event plays a significant role in raising awareness of the grandeur of the Asian Games, a platform where athletes from across Asia can showcase their potential and sportsmanship. "In the next few days, our Thai athletes will be competing. This event will be a part of building morale, confidence, and pride so that everyone is ready to perform to the best of their ability."
The Ministry of Tourism and Sports continues to support the development of athletes, personnel, and funding through the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) and the National Sports Development Fund. The ministry also congratulates the Thai women's national volleyball team on their victory over China, which serves as a significant inspiration to Thai sports. The public is invited to send their support and encouragement to the Thai athletes to perform to the best of their abilities and bring victory to the nation.
Associate Professor Dr. Chatchart Sittipunt, Governor of Bangkok, stated that the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) prioritizes sports as a tool for improving the quality of life of its citizens. The BMA has continuously supported provincial sports associations, enabling them to win numerous gold medals at both the National Games and the National Youth Games, and to be selected as an outstanding provincial sports association by the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT). However, the BMA's goal is not only to cultivate outstanding athletes but also to ensure that people in all 50 districts have access to exercise.
Assistant Professor Pimol Srivikrom, President of the National Olympic Committee of Thailand, emphasized that the preparation of the Thai national athletes covers all aspects, including training, physical fitness, mental well-being, sports science, and nutrition. Preparations are made for transportation, accommodation, water, and medical care so that the athletes can take to the field with confidence, supported by the entire Thai nation.
Dr. Kongsak Yodmani, Governor of the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT), stated that the SAT serves as a central coordinating body between sports associations, the National Olympic Committee of Thailand, and government agencies to ensure smooth team preparation and athlete travel. Regarding allowances and budgets, the emphasis is on proper, transparent, and verifiable management, ensuring that funding reaches sports associations and athletes quickly and efficiently.
Mr. Tanukiart Chanchum, Manager of the National Sports Development Fund, stated that the Fund is ready to boost the morale of athletes by awarding prize money to those who achieve success according to the established criteria. Mr. Thirachai Wutthitham, President of the Bangkok Metropolitan Sports Association, stated that the association is ready to serve as a foundation for developing new generations of athletes and to propel Bangkok athletes to the Thai national team.
The closing of the Bangkok Metropolitan Provincial Championship is not just the end of the competition, but another important step in connecting "local sports to the national team," and passing on the power from Bangkok's sports fields to the Asian stage. From now on, the Thai national team will move forward towards its mission at the 2026 Asian Games, with the support and encouragement from the entire Thai nation as a vital source of strength behind them. Let's cheer on Thai athletes together!