The Sports Authority of Thailand confirms it will send men's and women's football teams to compete in the 2026 Asian Games.
On 11 February 2026, the 2026 Asian Games will take place in Japan from 19 September to 4 October.
Earlier, Dr. Kongsak Yodmanee, Governor of the Sports Authority of Thailand, emphasized that athletes sent must have realistic medal chances, unlike previous times when broader participation occurred; selection will involve the National Olympic Committee of Thailand.
This raised discussion about whether Thailand's men's and women's national football teams would be sent to the Asian Games, since football is not generally seen as a sport with easy medal prospects.
The men's football team's best results were 4th place finishes in 2002 and 2014, while the women's team reached the quarterfinals in 2014, 2018, and 2022.
However, it has been confirmed that the Football Association of Thailand has coordinated with the Sports Authority to definitely send both teams to compete in the 2026 Asian Games. The men's team qualification is based on reaching the round of 16 in the recent 2026 Asian Championship, while the women's team is ranked 53rd in the world (10th in Asia), considered a strong standing.