Sport
Squash Association President Calls for Review of National Sports Fund Budgeting
Chalitrat Chantharubeksa, head of the Squash Association of Thailand, has urged the government to reconsider the National Sports Development Fund's budget allocation, citing concerns over funding shortfalls for national sports associations.
On August 14, 2026, Chalitrat Chantharubeksa, President of the Squash Association of Thailand, acting as a representative for various national sports associations, formally requested that Deputy Minister Songsak Thongsri review the current National Sports Development Fund policy.
According to Khaosod Online, the core issue involves significant budget arrears from 2024 and 2025. These funds, originally intended for national sports associations, were reportedly diverted to cover other expenses, including the 33rd SEA Games. Furthermore, the association expressed concern regarding the 2027 budget, which is capped at 1.3 billion baht for elite sports development. This figure falls short of the typical annual requirement of over 2 billion baht, which covers athlete training, coaching, domestic championships, and international competition participation.
For residents and visitors, this development highlights potential instability in the funding of national sports programs, which could impact the frequency and quality of international sporting events hosted in Thailand or the ability of local athletes to compete abroad. While the government has been petitioned to intervene, it remains to be confirmed how the Ministry will respond to these financial concerns and whether the proposed 2027 budget will be adjusted to meet the associations' operational needs.