Bangkok: The Thai national rugby sevens teams are intensifying their preparations for the upcoming 20th Asian Games, scheduled to take place from September 19th to October 4th, 2026, in Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture, Japan. The teams have been receiving steadfast support from the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) and the National Sports Development Fund as they gear up for this prestigious event.
According to Thai News Agency, ahead of the Asian Games, the Thai rugby team is set to compete in the first leg of the Asia Series 2026, which will be held from August 26-31, 2026, in the People's Republic of China. This tournament is a crucial platform for the team to test its mettle against top Asian nations that will also be participating in the Asian Games.
Pol. Lt. Col. Kulthan Prachuabmoh, President of the Rugby Football Association of Thailand, has expressed confidence in the team's potential, particularly highlighting the women's team's prospects of clinching at least a bronze medal. "At this Asian Games, the Thai rugby team is guaranteed at least one bronze medal from the women's team. Our key opponents to beat are Hong Kong and Kazakhstan. As for the men's team, more than half the team has been revamped from the SEA Games champions. We've called up two Thai rugby players currently living abroad to strengthen the team, and our goal is to finish in the top six," stated Police Lieutenant Colonel Kulthan.
He further acknowledged the critical role of the SAT in supporting the association and monitoring its international achievements. The upcoming Asian Games will feature the Sevens event, which includes two gold medals. The women's competition will see eight teams divided into two groups, with Thailand pitted against Japan, Kazakhstan, and Singapore in Group A. Group B consists of China, Hong Kong, India, and Malaysia.
Similarly, the men's tournament will comprise 12 teams divided into three groups. Thailand will face Japan, South Korea, and Kazakhstan in Group B. Group A features China, Hong Kong, Malaysia, and Uzbekistan, while Group C comprises Sri Lanka, the United Arab Emirates, Singapore, and the Philippines.