Thailand’s Sports Authority (SAT) has announced plans to intensify efforts to prevent and suppress corruption within the country’s sports sector, amid growing public expectations for reform. The move follows concerns that financial mismanagement and unethical practices have long affected sports associations and the use of state funding.

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The issue of corruption in Thai sport has been widely discussed for years, with critics pointing to a lack of transparency in the management of funds and sporting organisations. Despite public awareness and repeated allegations, many say no agency has previously succeeded in dismantling entrenched networks of malpractice within the sector.

A recent survey by KBU Sport Poll examined public expectations of the new government’s approach to developing national sport. One of the key concerns raised by respondents was corruption, which many viewed as a persistent problem and a major obstacle to progress in the industry.

Observers say athletes themselves are often aware of irregularities but rarely speak out. According to accounts within the sports community, many choose to remain silent for reasons of personal safety or career survival, believing it is safer to avoid involvement in contentious issues.

Officials acknowledge that while many individuals in the sector work with genuine dedication to improve Thai sport, others may enter positions of influence for personal gain. Critics have described such behaviour as exploiting athletes and public resources for the benefit of individuals or groups.

The SAT governor recently outlined new measures aimed at strengthening oversight and anti-corruption enforcement. The authority held discussions with several officials, including Poomvisal Kasemsuk, secretary-general of the Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC), Oranich Sukbal, director of the Public Sector Anti-Corruption Office Region 2, and Pol Col Thanapong Thabklam, superintendent of Division 6 of the Anti-Corruption Division.

The meeting focused on developing mechanisms to prevent corruption involving sports associations, competition organisers and private sector partners who receive funding from the SAT and the National Sports Development Fund. Officials also discussed oversight of SAT employees and other related personnel to ensure transparent use of government budgets.

In a statement, the SAT governor said the authority would “supervise, monitor and audit the use of budgets by sports associations and all parties receiving funding from the SAT and the National Sports Development Fund closely.” The goal, he added, is to ensure state funds are used transparently and effectively to support Thai athletes and the wider sports sector.

Authorities also stressed the importance of working closely with anti-corruption agencies to build confidence among athletes, sports personnel and the public. They said such cooperation would help ensure that government funding intended for sports development delivers maximum benefit and fairness.

Manager online reported that observers say the success of the initiative will depend on sustained monitoring and enforcement. Some argue that exposing wrongdoing and holding those responsible accountable would represent a significant turning point for the Thai sports industry.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now MGRonline 8 Mar 2026

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What a joke!!! Hahaha. Nothing will change!

Just money changing hands now.