Matum Peerapol Chaochiangkwang, a cyclist from the Thailand Continental Cycling Team, showcased an outstanding performance by winning 3 awards at the "Tour of Thailand 2026" cycling race.
"Matum" Peerapol Chaochiangkwang, a cyclist from the Thailand Continental Cycling Team, delivered an exceptional performance by sweeping 3 awards at the "Tour of Thailand 2026." He earned the "Best ASEAN" rider award, receiving the purple jersey, finished first in the second Intermediate Sprint (IS2), and won the Most Combative Rider award for stage 1. The stage 1 winner was Pierre Babier from the Terengganu Cycling Team, who also took the overall lead wearing the yellow jersey. Meanwhile, Nong Khai Governor Saran Sak Sri Krua Netr expressed delight over the strong support from local residents and emphasized the province's readiness to host the event and impress all the cyclists.
The international long-distance cycling competition "Tour of Thailand 2026," competing for the Royal Cup of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, runs from 24 March to 2 April 2026. The route covers Nong Khai and Udon Thani provinces, spanning a total distance of 1,113.70 kilometers. The opening ceremony for stage 1 was held on 24 March at the Sirindhorn 60th Birthday Anniversary Commemoration Plaza, presided over by Nong Khai Governor Saran Sak Sri Krua Netr. The event was also attended by General Decha Hemkrasri, Vice President of the Asian Cycling Confederation (ACC), President of the ASEAN Cycling Federation (ACF), and President of the Cycling Association of Thailand under Royal Patronage; former Deputy Minister of Tourism and Sports Krisda Tanterdtit; and other government officials.
Nong Khai Governor Saran Sak Sri Krua Netr stated that the "Tour of Thailand 2026" international cycling race is well-prepared in all aspects. He expressed pride in the large number of participating cyclists and the strong public support from Nong Khai residents as a gracious host. He had instructed all nine districts along the race route to facilitate the cyclists. He also invited local people to come out and watch, cheer, and encourage both Thai and international cyclists from now until 2 April, aiming to provide a memorable and safe experience for all athletes.
General Decha said the competition results today were satisfactory. "Matum," Pilot Officer Peerapol Chaochiangkwang from the Thailand Continental Cycling Team, broke away with a leading group of five riders but slowed down in the final 10 kilometers to rejoin the main group. At the finish, he secured three awards: Best ASEAN rider, first place in the second Intermediate Sprint (IS2), and Most Combative Rider for stage 1. Decha awarded the team a cash bonus of 30,000 baht to encourage their continued effort in upcoming stages. Stage 2 covers 150.20 kilometers, starting from Naka Sky Viewing Point for the Phaya Naga Fireball Festival at Wat Thai, Phon Phisai district, passing beautiful natural routes, and finishing at Nong Khai Central Stadium. He expects Thai cyclists to perform well.
General Decha added that the "Tour of Thailand 2026" international cycling race is broadcast live worldwide via Facebook Live and ThaiPBS's YouTube channel. This exposure helps showcase the city, promote tourist attractions, and boost Nong Khai's economy. Local vendors have seen increased income as athletes purchase food, supplies, souvenirs, and gifts. Many Nong Khai residents have come out along the route to welcome the cyclists, igniting interest in sports and tourism within the province.
Stage 1 results, covering a 108.60-kilometer route within Nong Khai province through Tha Bo district and finishing at Nong Khai Central Stadium, saw Pierre Babier of Malaysia’s Terengganu Cycling Team win first place. Alexander Salby from China’s Li Ning Star Team finished second, and Oscar Nisu from China’s China Anta-Mentec Cycling Team placed third, all with the same time of 2:20:32 hours.
The overall leader’s jersey went to Pierre Babier of Terengganu Cycling Team, who shaved 10 seconds off his time to finish at 2:20:22 hours, earning the yellow jersey. He also took the green jersey as the leader in the points classification for intermediate sprints. "Matum," Pilot Officer Peerapol Chaochiangkwang from Thailand Continental Cycling, claimed three awards: first place in the second Intermediate Sprint (IS2), Best ASEAN rider, and fifth place overall with a time of 2:20:29 after receiving a 3-second bonus for winning IS2. He wore the purple jersey and was also named Most Combative Rider for his aggressive performance in stage 1. Full results are available at www.tourofthailand.in.th.
For stage 2 on 25 March, the opening ceremony was chaired by Nong Khai Governor Saran Sak Sri Krua Netr and began at 08:30 a.m. The route runs from Naka Sky Viewing Point for the Phaya Naga Fireball Festival at Wat Thai in Phon Phisai district, passing through Rattanawapi, Fao Rai, Phon Phisai districts, and finishing back at Nong Khai Central Stadium, covering 150.20 kilometers. The race was broadcast live via Facebook Live and ThaiPBS’s YouTube channel starting at 08:30 a.m.