The Minister of Tourism and Sports kicked off "Buriram Marathon 2027," announcing a strategy to use major sports events as a driving force for grassroots economic development.
On 21 July 2026 at The Stories Square, G Floor, One Bangkok Shopping Center, Mr. Surasak Pancharoenworakul, Minister of Tourism and Sports, presided over the press conference for the world-standard running event "Buriram Marathon 2027." The event was attended by prominent figures from the sports and city management sectors, including Mr. Newin Chidchob, Chairman of Chang International Circuit; Mr. Chotichon Chidchob, Race Director; Police General Chakthip Chaijinda, President of the Athletics Association of Thailand; and Mr. Piya Pijarn, Governor of Buriram Province.
Mr. Surasak revealed that Buriram Marathon, internationally certified by World Athletics, is proudly entering its second decade. Over the past 10 years, it has concretely demonstrated that sports can sustainably generate economic value for the region. The Ministry of Tourism and Sports has set a strategic direction aligned with the event's success focusing on three main dimensions: transforming "mass participation" into "economic power." Over the decade, it has generated more than 5.2 billion baht in economic turnover by attracting both domestic and international runners and tourists.
Elevating the economy of secondary cities by using these locations as strategic points to distribute income widely to the grassroots economy, with Buriram serving as a model for sports-driven urban development and community engagement. A key strength is the full participation of Buriram residents as hosts, turning the race into a festival of happiness.
"I believe no other province in Thailand has as much citizen involvement in hosting a major sports event as Buriram," said Mr. Surasak. "In its second decade, Buriram Marathon will be a key platform to attract sports tourists and serve as a model for sports-driven urban development for other provinces, propelling Thailand toward becoming Asia’s premier Sports Tourism destination," the Minister of Tourism and Sports added.
Beyond the sports and economic aspects, the press conference also featured a ceremony to present financial support to the Athletics Association of Thailand under Royal Patronage. Additionally, proceeds from the Charity Bib sales from the 2026 Buriram Marathon were donated to Buriram Hospital to assist patients and support medical development.