Thailand's Olympic Bid for 2030 Youth Olympics Still Alive as Cabinet Has Not Officially Withdrawn
Thailand's bid to host the 2030 Youth Olympic Games remains officially alive despite government plans to withdraw, as the cabinet has not yet formally rescinded its original approval. The Thai Olympic Committee is awaiting a final IOC decis
Assoc. Prof. Pimol Srivikrom, chairman of the Thai Olympic Committee Under Royal Patronage, chaired the third 2025 administrative board meeting on May 27 to discuss Thailand's bid for hosting the 2030 Youth Olympic Games. Thailand had advanced to the final round of selection by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) before the government announced plans to withdraw due to budget constraints through an interview with the Minister of Tourism and Sports.
Srivikrom stated that Thailand's status remains in limbo because the original bid proposal was approved by cabinet resolution 7-8 years ago, so any official withdrawal should also require formal cabinet approval. The Olympic Committee has notified the IOC and requested extensions for document submission while the IOC has also postponed its host selection decision. A clear conclusion from the IOC is expected before the Youth Olympic Games in Senegal in October 2025. The committee expressed full understanding of the government's broader economic considerations beyond just sports.
The meeting also addressed issues with the Thai Sepak Takraw Association following the World Championships, where Thailand's team protested against perceived biased referee decisions by walking out before the match ended. This violation of international federation rules could result in sanctions ahead of the Asian Games in Japan in late September. The Olympic Committee pledged to support the sepak takraw association and explore all legal remedies if penalties are imposed.
Meanwhile, Brig. Gen. Ekarachai Sirivatana, vice chairman and CEO of the Southeast Asian Games Federation, reported on Malaysia's preparations for the 34th SEA Games. Malaysia has confirmed 38 sports with Thailand requesting 8 additional sports including rowing, canoeing, wrestling, ice hockey, judo, modern pentathlon, kickboxing, and netball. The host can accommodate up to 4 additional sports before the final sports list is announced in June.
