Thai Sepak Takraw Federation Chief Praises King's Cup Turnout
Nineteen nations will compete in the 39th King's Cup World Championship, a prestigious sepak takraw tournament running August 4-11 at Fashion Island in Thailand, attracting more participants than the 2026 Asian Games.
Nathana Chaipraseuth, president of the Thai Sepak Takraw Association, expressed satisfaction that 19 nations have confirmed participation in the 39th King's Cup World Championship, to be held August 4-11 at Fashion Island. The competition is a prestigious and historic 40-year-old tournament regarded as one of the sport's most sacred championships worldwide.
International Sepak Takraw Federation Secretary-General Datuk Abdul Halim Kader noted that this King's Cup has attracted more participating nations than the 2026 Asian Games in Japan, scheduled for next month, highlighting the tournament's significant global standing.
When asked about contingency plans for Thai athletes potentially banned before the King's Cup concludes, association president Chaipraseuth confirmed that Thailand has prepared backup rosters. If a team nominally sends 14 players, the association prepares 19-20 athletes, ensuring sufficient depth should any competitor face sanctions.
Regarding sepak takraw's inclusion in the 2026 Asian Games in Doha, Qatar—a region less experienced with the sport—Dr. Seehasak Arirachakaran, the association's vice president and secretary-general, indicated the federation will collaborate with the Olympic Council of Asia to develop competitive teams in the Middle East. He noted that Thai coaches are already based there, and by promoting more competitions in underrepresented regions like South Asia and East Asia, the sport can strengthen globally and improve its chances of remaining in future Asian Games.
