In a ceremonious distribution led by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin at Government House, the Thai government disbursed an impressive sum of over 350 million baht in financial rewards to medalists from the 19th Asian Games and Asian Para Games, along with their coaches and associated sports associations. This significant allocation, totaling 353.925 million baht, underscored the nation’s commitment to recognizing and fostering sporting excellence.
The Thai athletes showcased their prowess at the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, China, securing a commendable 58 medals and achieving an eighth-place finish overall. Simultaneously, their counterparts in the Asian Para Games clinched an impressive 108 medals, securing a notable seventh-place standing. These achievements highlighted Thailand’s prowess on the international sporting stage.
According to the National Sports Development Fund’s (NSDF) reward policy, the athletes received substantial sums for their accomplishments. Gold medalists were awarded two million baht, silver medalists received one million, and bronze medalists were granted 500,000 baht. Coaches and sports bodies also received financial incentives, contributing to a total disbursement of 244.20 million baht for Asian Games athletes.
The Takraw Association of Thailand emerged as the most successful sports body at the Games, securing a lion’s share of 86.80 million baht for their outstanding performance resulting in four gold medals. Other associations, such as the Rowing and Canoeing Association and the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand, were also significant beneficiaries, receiving 44.45 million and 8.25 million baht, respectively.
The Asian Para Games athletes were not overlooked in the distribution, receiving a collective sum of 109.725 million baht, following a reward structure analogous to that of their Asian Games counterparts.
Expressing his keen interest in sports, Prime Minister Srettha assured the public of the government’s unwavering commitment to financially supporting athletes who bring pride to the nation through their exceptional achievements. Furthermore, he pledged to advocate for enhanced financial rewards for both able-bodied and disabled sports talents, emphasizing the government’s dedication to fostering a culture of excellence in the realm of sports.
