National Olympic Committee of Cambodia (NOCC) send the letter for pulls out from SEA Games 2025 in Thailand its entire sporting delegation out of the regional showpiece, citing rising safety concerns following deadly border clashes with Thailand.
The announcement came just hours after Cambodia marched proudly at Tuesday’s opening ceremony at Rajamangala Stadium, leaving officials, athletes, and organisers stunned.
In a formal letter addressed to SEA Games Federation CEO Chaiyapak Siriwat, NOCC secretary-general H.E. Vath Chamroeun confirmed Cambodia’s immediate and complete withdrawal.
“Due to serious concerns and requests from the families of our athletes to have their relatives return home immediately, NOCC must withdraw all of our delegation and arrange for their prompt return to Cambodia for safety reasons,” Vath wrote.
“This decision was not made lightly.”
Cambodia had earlier withdrawn from eight sports over safety fears but remained committed to competition — until Wednesday’s sudden escalation forced a total pullout.
Cambodia’s abrupt exit leaves several competitions reshuffled just one day into the Games, which run from Dec 9–20 in Bangkok. Organisers are now working closely with the Cambodian delegation to manage departure logistics and formalities.
Vath concluded his letter with an apology:
“We apologise for any inconvenience this early departure may cause and remain grateful for your understanding and support.”
The shock departure marks one of the most dramatic withdrawals in SEA Games history — a stark reminder of how geopolitical conflict can overshadow even the region’s most celebrated sporting event.
Credit Photo : NOCC
