Cambodia withdraws from SEA Games 33 due to security concerns in the border region.

The Cambodian Sports Delegation has decided to withdraw from all competitions at the 33rd SEA Games, just one day after the Opening Ceremony took place at Rajamangala National Stadium (Thailand).

The Cambodian sports delegation at the opening ceremony of the 33rd SEA Games.

On the morning of December 10th, the Secretary General of the Cambodian Olympic Committee (NOCC), Vath Chamroeun, sent a letter to the Organizing Committee of the 33rd SEA Games (THASOC), announcing the decision to withdraw the Cambodian sports delegation from the Games. The reasons given were the tense political situation between Cambodia and Thailand, along with requests from the families of some athletes.

In the letter, Mr. Chamroeun expressed regret over the decision and thanked the National Olympic Committee of Thailand (NOCT) and the Organizing Committee of the 33rd SEA Games for their support, thoughtful hospitality, and the sportsmanship shown by the host country to the Cambodian delegation during their participation.

Previously, 137 Cambodian officials and athletes were warned to reconsider their stay and competition in Thailand, in order to minimize potential risks during travel and return home.

Prior to the opening ceremony, Cambodia announced it would not participate in 10 sports: billiards, Muay Thai, judo, karate, pencak silat, petanque, wrestling, wushu, football, and sepak takraw; while still planning to participate in the remaining 12 sports: swimming, athletics, eSports, fencing, gymnastics, jujitsu, kickboxing, taekwondo, equestrianism, jet skiing, triathlon, and teqball.

However, new developments at the border area just before the opening ceremony led the delegation's leaders to decide to withdraw completely, in order to ensure the absolute safety of the athletes and delegation members.

This last-minute move is considered a major and rare surprise in the history of the SEA Games. Cambodia's withdrawal is expected to affect the schedule and organization of several sports, especially in events where the Cambodian team was previously considered a strong contender for medals.

PV

Source: https://nhandan.vn/campuchia-rut-khoi-sea-games-33-vi-lo-ngai-an-ninh-khu-vuc-bien-gioi-post929172.html