Cambodia withdraws athletes from SEA Games over border conflict

Cambodia has withdrawn its athletes from the 2025 Southeast Asian Games hosted by Thailand due to "safety concerns" amid escalating border conflict.

The decision was formally communicated by the National Olympic Committee of Cambodia (NOCC) Secretary General Vath Chamroeun to the SEA Games Federation, citing urgent requests from athletes' families for their immediate return.

Fighting erupted between Thailand and Cambodia on Monday, December 8, the second major flare-up this year, displacing hundreds of thousands and causing casualties.

This withdrawal follows Thailand's suspension of de-escalation measures agreed upon in October after a landmine incident, further deteriorating relations.

The Cambodian delegation of officials, coaches, and athletes returned safely to the Kingdom on Wednesday, December 10, after Cambodia was forced to withdraw from the 33rd SEA Games 2025 in Thailand midway through the event.