Bangkok: A petition has been filed with the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) to investigate the allegedly substandard management of the esports competition at the 2025 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games. The president of the Thai esports association has expressed concerns about the organization of the event, prompting a formal request for an inquiry.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chutipong Phipopphinyo, a former Member of Parliament for Rayong Province from the People's Party, along with Mr. Thanon Thanakornprapha, President of the Esports Association for Education and Youth Development, submitted a complaint to SAT. The complaint outlines concerns regarding the management of the esports competition at the recently concluded SEA Games, pointing to substandard management practices.
The petition specifically demands an explanation from Mr. Santi Lohthong, President of the Esports Association of Thailand, regarding the alleged downgrading of equipment specifications. This downgrade reportedly resulted in substandard equipment that led to rule violations. Consequently, the Thai women's esports team was forced to withdraw from the competition, thereby missing out on potential medal opportunities.