Technical delegates visit competition venues across Nakhon Ratchasima, the main hub of the 13th ASEAN Para Games in Thailand, on Wednesday (Sept. 17, 2025). The tournament featuring 19 sports will be held from Jan. 20 to 26, 2026. (Contributed photo)
Preparations for the 13th ASEAN Para Games in Thailand gained momentum this week following the successful conclusion of the first Technical Delegates (TD) Meeting on Wednesday.
Chaired by Preecha Laloon, deputy governor of the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) for Elite Sports and Sports Science, the three-day meeting brought together key officials including ASEAN Para Sports Federation (APSF) President Maj. Gen. Osoth Bhavilai, APSF Secretary-General Senior Colonel Dr. Wandee Tosuwan, APSF Sports and Technical Chairperson Walter Torres, and APSF Sports Director Stefanie Ang. Thirteen technical delegates, competition and venue managers, and nearly 100 representatives from APSF and the Thailand ASEAN Para Games Organizing Committee (THASOC) were also in attendance.
As part of the preparations, delegates toured competition venues across Nakhon Ratchasima (Korat), assessing facilities as largely ready with only minor accessibility upgrades needed, such as improved ramps, restroom upgrades, and refined layouts. THASOC confirmed these adjustments are already underway and will be completed well ahead of the Games. Organizers also provided updates on accommodations, accreditation, logistics, medical services, and sports operations.
Around 3,000 athletes are expected to compete for 536 gold medals from January 20 to 26, 2026 in Nakhon Ratchasima and Bangkok. Final numbers will be confirmed after the submission of entries by name on November 15.
“Nakhon Ratchasima has repeatedly hosted major international para sports events and has extensive experience. The federations are confident that Thailand will successfully manage all aspects of the Games including venues, competitions, and organizations, up to international standards,” said Laloon.
The 19 sports to be contested are Para Swimming, Wheelchair Basketball, Para Archery, Para Badminton, Para Shooting, Para Athletics, Judo, Sitting Volleyball, Blind Football (5-a-side), CP Football (7-a-side), Boccia, Goalball, Powerlifting, Wheelchair Tennis, Table Tennis, Para Cycling (Track and Road), Para Fencing, Chess, and Tenpin Bowling. Para Athletics, Para Swimming, Para Powerlifting, and Para Cycling are sanctioned by International Federations, meaning results will count towards international rankings and qualification for major competitions such as the Asian Para Games. Wheelchair Rugby and Lawn Bowls will be held as demonstration sports.
Technical delegates emphasized two key areas needing further coordination: ensuring event viability pending final athlete entries, and balancing competition schedules with rehearsals for the Opening and Closing Ceremonies at the main athletics stadium. THASOC assured that the sports program will remain as planned to avoid disruption, although National Paralympic Committees (NPCs) may request additional events for joint review with TDs.
“Thailand has repeatedly proven its ability to stage para sports to world-class standards. With Nakhon Ratchasima’s experience and strong collaboration amongst stakeholders, we are confident the 13th ASEAN Para Games will be a success,” said Bhavilai.
Tosuwan underscored the importance of inclusivity and regional spirit. “Together, we are determined to ensure the Games will not only meet international standards but also serve as a celebration of ASEAN unity, friendship, and sporting excellence,” she said.
The 13th ASEAN Para Games, carrying the theme “ASEAN Moving Together” and “Create Pride Together,” marks the return of the Games to Nakhon Ratchasima after 18 years.