Initially, Cambodia registered for 12 sports at the SEA Games, a reduction from the planned 21, due to ongoing border conflicts with Thailand. On 8/12, their swimming, taekwondo, and ju-jitsu teams arrived in Thailand and participated in the flag-raising ceremony that afternoon. On the evening of 9/12, Cambodia still sent members to the opening ceremony at Rajamangala stadium in Bangkok.

However, on the morning of 10/12, Vath Chamroeun, Secretary General of the Cambodia National Olympic Committee (NOCC), sent a letter announcing the withdrawal of all Cambodian athletes. Despite acknowledging the inconvenience this would cause the Games, he stated that the decision was unavoidable due to escalating political tensions between Cambodia and Thailand, coupled with pressure from the athletes' families.

The Cambodian sports delegation at the SEA Games 33 opening ceremony at Rajamangala stadium in Bangkok, Thailand, on the evening of 9/12/2025. Photo: *Duc Dong*

The Hong Kong-based South China Morning Post reported today, "In an unprecedented move, Cambodia has withdrawn its entire sports delegation from the SEA Games in Thailand." The newspaper cited security concerns amid renewed border clashes between the neighboring countries, noting that the unusual action occurred shortly after the Cambodian delegation attended the opening ceremony in Bangkok on the evening of 9/12.

Thailand's Siam Sport newspaper expressed shock upon receiving the news. The report stated that 137 Cambodian members in Thailand, including 110 athletes, would return home without competing in any scheduled events.

According to Singapore-based CNA, Cambodia feared its athletes could be in danger if border tensions escalated. Athletes' families had reportedly demanded their immediate return home.

Thana Chaiprasit, Head of the Thai sports delegation, conveyed his understanding of the Cambodian counterpart's concerns, according to Nation Thailand. He explained that the Cambodian government and National Olympic Committee faced immense pressure from athletes' parents, who called continuously, demanding their children's return following reports of intense border clashes.

He added that political tensions also amplified these concerns, including allegations that Cambodian soldiers captured during clashes remained detained and unreleased. This situation led athletes' families to fear their children competing in Thailand could be harmed or even taken hostage.

Thana expressed sympathy for these worries, even as Thailand continued to assure the safety of all athletes and uphold its commitment to the spirit of friendship and solidarity at the Games.

Reuters reported that hundreds of thousands of people had been evacuated due to fierce artillery exchanges from both sides and airstrikes by Thai fighter jets. Officials stated that at least 14 people died and 88 were injured in this week's clashes.

Cambodia's decision necessitates adjustments to the competition schedule for affected sports. Some events will proceed with only two participating nations, still competing for gold medals.

By Hoang An