Mr. Preecha Lalun, Deputy Governor for Elite Sports and Sports Science at the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT), Dr. Sompol Ratchatapimolchai, Chief Marketing Officer of Ayutthaya City Park, and Mr. Tin Paowongsakul, Executive Committee Member of the Taekwondo Association of Thailand, jointly opened the “PTT Thailand Grand Prix 2026” taekwondo competition at Ayutthaya City Park in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province on 22 August 2026 GMT+7.
Mr. Preecha stated that the PTT Thailand Grand Prix 2026, held from 21-23 August at Ayutthaya City Park, featured over 300 competing athletes. This event is a collaboration between the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, SAT, and the Taekwondo Association aimed at scouting athletes at all levels to join the Thai national team in the future. It offers high-ranking athletes the opportunity to compete, earn points, and move closer to national team selection, leading to international competitions. Additionally, holding the event in Ayutthaya—a province easily accessible with well-equipped venues and nearby tourist attractions—helps stimulate the economy within the central provincial cluster.
The SAT Deputy Governor added that this competition format serves as a strong model for other combat sports to organize tournaments aimed at discovering talented athletes who can bring national prestige. SAT is also committed to supporting and advancing the training of athletes who qualify for the national team in international contests, aiming to develop superstars and generate widespread popularity for each sport.