Track Chief Addresses Athlete's Flag Complaint After Asian Games Gold
Thai Athletics Association president Chakraphat Chaijinda addressed complaints from gold medalist Joshua Roberti Atkinson that team staff failed to provide a Thai flag after his 400-meter victory at the 2026 Asian Games in Japan. The associ
Chakraphat Chaijinda, president of the Thai Athletics Association, has addressed the controversy surrounding Joshua Roberti Atkinson's complaint that team staff failed to provide him with a Thai flag after his gold medal victory in the men's 400 meters at the 2026 Asian Games.
Thailand's track and field athletes have already won three gold medals at the Games in Japan. Biu Phuripon Bunsorn claimed two golds, breaking the Asian Games record in the men's 100 meters with a time of 9.90 seconds and setting both an Asian Games and continental record in the 200 meters at 19.88 seconds. Joshua Roberti Atkinson won the men's 400 meters in 44.90 seconds, setting a personal best and becoming the first Thai athlete to win gold in this event at the Asian Games. The relay team also has a chance to add another medal.
Chakraphat stated that the Athletics Association has been building on previous successes and that breaking records is challenging with many contributing factors. When asked about Atkinson's social media complaint regarding the missing flag, Chakraphat said he appointed Naphant Wutthi Liem Songwan as team manager and that this person must provide a full explanation to the public. He noted he had not yet spoken with Atkinson directly, only with the coach.
When asked if Atkinson appeared upset, Chakraphat said he was uncertain but learned about the incident through social media and would wait for the team manager's clarification. He suggested it could be related to strict venue access restrictions, noting he himself could not enter certain areas. When pressed on whether Atkinson's public comments might reflect poorly on the association and upset him, Chakraphat quickly responded that he does not get angry with athletes and gives everyone opportunities. He emphasized that athletes should build a reputation for their country, the association, and themselves.
Chakraphat confirmed the association supports all athletes, including Atkinson, and sometimes covers their foreign competition expenses.
