Bangkok: The ongoing conflict in the Middle East is not expected to disrupt the upcoming Tour of Thailand 2026 international cycling competition.
According to Thai News Agency, General Decha Hemkrasri, Vice President of the Asian Cycling Confederation and President of the ASEAN Cycling Federation, confirmed that the escalating tensions between the United States, Israel, and Iran, which have significantly impacted air travel across the Middle East, will not affect the cycling event.
General Decha stated that the Cycling Association of Thailand, responsible for organizing the prestigious race for the Royal Trophy of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, has coordinated with all participating teams to ensure their participation remains unaffected. The competition is set to take place from March 24 to April 2, 2026, covering routes in Nong Khai and Udon Thani provinces.
The men's team event will feature professional teams from countries including Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Australia, and others, while the national teams from Singapore, Vietnam, and Thailand will also compete. Most teams have direct travel routes to Thailand, bypassing the Middle East, except for QuickPro Team from Estonia, which might face travel challenges. Similarly, almost all travel routes for the women's team event remain unaffected, with only VIB Sports Team from Iraq potentially experiencing issues. The Cycling Association of Thailand is actively coordinating with these teams to address any travel difficulties, and backup teams are prepared to step in if necessary.
General Decha emphasized that to ensure all teams are ready for participation, the International Affairs Department of the Cycling Association of Thailand has sent letters to verify the teams' readiness. If any team encounters issues, replacement teams are on standby to maintain the planned team quota.
The Tour of Thailand 2026 will cover a total distance of 1,113.70 kilometers, with the men's event spanning 816.60 kilometers over six stages from March 24-29, and the women's event covering 297.10 kilometers over three stages from March 30 to April 2. Teams from various countries, including Thailand Continental Team, Ruja Insurance Winspace Team, and many others, are set to compete in this international event.