As the host of the 2025 SEA Games, Thailand encountered problems with the lighting at Rajamangala Stadium and audio system failures that prevented the national anthems from being played. The Governor of the Sports Authority of Thailand acknowledged all issues as technical errors and quickly issued explanations along with apologies to the competing nations.
On 4 Dec 2025 GMT+7, Dr. Kongsak Yodmanee, Governor of the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT), addressed the controversy that arose during the first day of football at the 2025 SEA Games on 3 Dec. He spoke on the program "Workers News Offscreen" following multiple issues at Rajamangala Stadium, including lighting malfunctions and an audio system failure that prevented the national anthems from being played as scheduled.
Multiple Lights at Rajamangala Stadium Fail – Borrowing Lighting from Korat Stadium
“Several bulbs went out.” Although the international-standard stadium should have backup stock, it was found that no spare equipment was available. This forced officials to urgently seek lighting equipment borrowed from the 80th Birthday Stadium in Nakhon Ratchasima Province, which also has a Thai League match scheduled for 7 Dec.
Dr. Kongsak explained:
“The stadium lighting was not below standard, but some areas may have appeared untidy. The issue has now been resolved, and I confirm the lighting is sufficiently bright.”
National Anthem Not Played – Athletes Sing Live on Field
The controversy continued in the men's opening football match between Laos and Vietnam, when the audio system failed to play the national anthems of both countries. This forced the athletes to sing the anthems themselves amid confusion among the spectators in the stadium.
The SAT Governor stated:
“This was a technical error, not a copyright issue. The Football Association, responsible for organizing the competition, has already sent letters of apology to both Laos and Vietnam.”
Sponsor Image on the Torch – Criticized and Ordered Changed
Another issue raised was the sponsor image displayed on the torch, which was viewed as inappropriate for an international-level opening ceremony. Dr. Kongsak admitted:
“I myself did not like it, so I ordered it to be replaced with the SEA Games logo and mascot instead, which are more appropriate.”
The SAT Governor emphasized that many parties are involved in organizing the event. While sponsors may seek visibility, there is no contractual requirement to display sponsor logos on the torch.