Government Spokesperson Denies Using State Budget to Purchase World Cup Broadcasting Rights, Clarifies Cabinet Only Acknowledged Decision Today
Government officials denied claims that state funds were used to secure World Cup broadcasting rights, clarifying the Cabinet only acknowledged the Public Relations Department's coordination role today. Funding sources will be explained onc
Government Spokesperson Denies Using State Budget to Purchase World Cup Broadcasting Rights, Clarifies Cabinet Only Acknowledged Decision Today. Awaiting Public Relations Department's explanation on both live broadcast arrangements and funding sources.
May 12, 2025 - Government Spokesperson Ratchada Thanadirek confirmed today that the Cabinet did not consider any budget allocation. The Cabinet resolution merely acknowledged that the Public Relations Department will coordinate arrangements for live broadcasting of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The department already has guidelines in place, though details were not disclosed.
Regarding the implementation approach, since live broadcasting involves coordination among multiple agencies, the Public Relations Department will be responsible for leading the effort.
Addressing public misunderstanding about an alleged 1.3 billion baht budget approval, the spokesperson emphasized that no central government budget will be used. Once coordination is finalized, the Public Relations Department will provide a full explanation.
Ratchada confirmed that government funds are not being used and reiterated that no state budget is being allocated. The source of funding will be explained by the Public Relations Department. She expressed that if arrangements allow Thais to watch the World Cup without impacting the state budget, everyone should be happy. Further details will be disclosed once the process is complete.
