Cambodia clarifies the reasons for withdrawing from all events at the SEA Games.

(Dan Tri Newspaper) - The National Olympic Committee of Cambodia (NOCC) stated that the withdrawal of all Cambodian athletes from the 33rd SEA Games was due to concerns from their families.

On the morning of December 10th, the National Olympic Committee of Cambodia (NOCC) announced the withdrawal of its entire sports delegation from the 33rd SEA Games. Subsequently, the Cambodian sports governing body sent a document clearly outlining the reasons for this decision.

Cambodia has decided to withdraw all its athletes from the SEA Games (Photo: Thairath).

In the letter, NOCC Secretary-General Vath Chamroeun emphasized that the organization had “no other choice” but to arrange for the athletes to return home immediately.

Vath Chamroeun wrote: “Due to serious concerns and requests from the athletes’ families for their loved ones to return immediately, the NOCC was forced to withdraw the entire delegation and arrange for their return to Cambodia as soon as possible for safety reasons.”

He emphasized that this decision was made reluctantly, while acknowledging the “hospitality, warmth, and sportsmanship” that the Thai SEA Games Organizing Committee (THASOC) and the National Olympic Committee of Thailand (NOCT) had shown to the Cambodian delegation.

"We apologize for any inconvenience this early departure may cause, and we always appreciate your understanding and support," the letter stated.

NOCC stated that it will coordinate with SEAGF to arrange the necessary procedures and organize the delegation's departure from Thailand.

The letter did not detail the nature of the safety concerns that led to the Cambodian sports delegation's emergency withdrawal. This move comes just weeks after Cambodia announced its intention to withdraw from eight sports due to security concerns.

Previously, Cambodia had reduced the number of athletes and only registered to participate in 12 sports with a total of 137 athletes and officials. In the opening ceremony of the 33rd SEA Games held at Rajamangala Stadium (Bangkok) on December 9, the Cambodian sports delegation also participated in the parade with 30 athletes.

Source: https://dantri.com.vn/the-thao/campuchia-noi-ro-ly-do-rut-khoi-toan-bo-cac-mon-o-sea-games-20251210151953828.htm