Sanya: The Asian Beach Games are buzzing with activity as the full Thai contingent has already flown to China in preparation for the 6th Asian Beach Games, held from April 22-30, 2026, in Sanya, People's Republic of China. Channel T Sports 7 is gearing up to broadcast the opening and closing ceremonies live.
According to Thai News Agency, the Thai national athletes departed from Suvarnabhumi Airport on April 21, 2026. The main Thai contingent, which includes promising talents in beach athletics, dragon boating, jujitsu, beach kabaddi, teqball, men's water polo, beach football, and beach volleyball, is set to compete fiercely in this year's Games. After a 10-year hiatus, the Asian Beach Games are back, featuring 1,790 athletes from 45 Asian countries competing in 14 sports for 62 gold medals. Thailand is sending a strong team of 176 athletes aiming to secure 15 gold medals.
Dr. Kongsak Yodmani, Governor of the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT), encouraged Thai sports fans to support their national team, emphasizing that many sports in the Games could pave the way for future success in the Asian Games and the Olympic Games. He highlighted Thailand's history of outstanding performances in past beach sports events.
The Governor also confirmed that Channel T Sports 7 will provide live broadcasts of the opening and closing ceremonies, beginning with the opening ceremony on April 22, 2026, from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM. The channel will also feature popular sports where the Thai team is expected to excel, including Jujitsu, beach athletics, dragon boating, and others such as 3x3 basketball, beach volleyball, and sport climbing.
The opening ceremony, themed "A Date with the Sea and the Sky," will take place at the Sanya Asian Beach Games Park. It will showcase a "Lightweight, Narrative-Driven" style with "Yaya," the Games' mascot, playing a central role. The ceremony's performance is divided into three segments: Passion of the Sea and Sky, Dreams Beneath the Deep Blue, and Connecting the World. The stage design will incorporate the natural beauty of Sanya Bay and the Tianyahaijiao area, merging physical and digital elements to highlight the sea's allure.
The 6th Asian Beach Games will feature 14 sports, including beach athletics, aquatic sports, 3x3 basketball, and more, promising a thrilling competition for participants and viewers alike.