Sport
Thai Public Optimistic About Asian Games 2026 Performance
A recent KBU Sport Poll reveals high public expectations for Thai athletes at the upcoming Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan.
As Thailand prepares for the 2026 Asian Games, scheduled to take place in Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture, Japan, from September 19 to October 4, 2026, public interest in the national team's performance is high. According to a report by Khaosod Online, a survey conducted by KBU Sport Poll—a collaboration between Kasem Bundit University’s Human Capital Development Innovation Center, the Sports Management Institute (WISDOM), and the 'Bee Bangpakong' page—gauged public sentiment regarding the event.
The survey, conducted between September 7 and 9, 2026, involved 1,102 participants aged 18 and older. The findings indicate that 84.60% of respondents are interested in following the competition. Many participants identified Sepak Takraw as a primary source of hope for gold medals, with a general consensus that the Thai delegation could reach the target of 15 gold medals.
For residents and travelers, this high level of public engagement highlights the cultural significance of the Asian Games in Thailand. While the poll reflects the optimistic outlook of the Thai public, the actual medal count remains to be determined once the games conclude in October. The survey serves as a snapshot of national sentiment rather than a prediction of athletic outcomes.