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Sports Authority Seeks Rights To Broadcast Olympic Games 2024

The Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) is partnering with the private sector to invest around 400 million baht in the broadcasting rights for the Olympic Games, according to SAT Governor Kongsak Yodmanee.

Governor Kongsak noted that previously, the SAT received half the funds required for the Olympics broadcasting rights from the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC), with the remainder covered by the National Sports Development Fund and contributions from the private sector.

For the 2024 Olympics broadcasting, the SAT sought 435 million baht from the NBTC’s Broadcasting and Telecommunications Research and Development Fund this past Wednesday. The NBTC declined to provide the funding assistance.

A source reported that the NBTC board unanimously voted against funding the purchase of broadcasting rights for the 33rd Olympic Games and the 17th Paralympic Games in Paris, with a 7-0 vote.

“We had multiple discussions with the NBTC regarding our request. However, no SAT representatives were present during the NBTC’s final decision,” said Mr. Kongsak.

“We want to ensure that all Thais can access the Olympic broadcasts through various channels, as per the cabinet’s direction,” he added.

Due to the pressing nature of the situation, the SAT promptly escalated the matter to the National Sports Development Fund committee, which convened on Thursday.

The committee decided to move forward, with the government stepping in as the main supporter to facilitate discussions with private partners.

While the exact cost of acquiring the broadcasting rights has yet to be revealed, it is understood to exceed the 400 million baht initially approved by the committee, with operational costs also to be considered.