Bangkok: The Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) has announced its readiness to host National Sports Day on February 9, 2026, at the Indoor Stadium, Hua Mak. This event, initially scheduled for December 16, 2025, has been moved to honor the achievements of athletes who will participate in the upcoming Southeast Asian Games and ASEAN Para Games.
According to Thai News Agency, Dr. Kongsak Yodmani, Governor of the SAT, shared that National Sports Day traditionally falls on December 16th each year, commemorating His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej's gold medal victory in the OK dinghy sailing event during the 1967 Southeast Asian Games. The Cabinet decided to mark this date as National Sports Day in 1986, and the SAT has organized the event annually for 40 years.
The rescheduling accommodates Thailand's role as host for the 33rd Southeast Asian Games and the 13th ASEAN Para Games between December 2025 and January 2026. The February 9, 2026, event will recognize athletes, coaches, sports associations, and personnel who have achieved significant results, bringing honor to the nation and inspiring future generations.
The selection criteria for 2025 awards focus on competitive results from December 17, 2024, to December 15, 2025, including performances at the Southeast Asian Games and ASEAN Para Games. The competitions are prioritized by level: World, Asian, ASEAN, and University. The Outstanding Professional Boxer award considers achievements from December 11, 2024, to December 10, 2025.
Dr. Yodmani emphasized that the National Sports Day working committee and relevant departments are fully prepared. The athletes' performances post-ASEAN Para Games will play a crucial role in award considerations.
The 2025 awards include categories such as Outstanding Amateur Athlete, Outstanding Amateur Youth Athlete, Outstanding Professional Athlete, Outstanding Professional Muay Thai Athlete, Outstanding Disabled Athlete, Outstanding Team Sports, Outstanding Sports Coach, Outstanding Sports Association, Outstanding Sports Personnel, and Outstanding Senior Athlete, each receiving a prestigious Royal Trophy.