Cambodia to use National Games as rehearsal for international events
The domestic competitions are scheduled for November 5 to 13, with 4,773 coaches and athletes taking part in 304 events.
Cambodia’s preparations for three international sporting competitions from 2028 to 2031 will be tested through its 2026 domestic games, officials said. The 5th National Games and 3rd National Para Games will take place from November 5 to 13 across Phnom Penh, Kep, Kampong Chhnang and Svay Rieng.
Speaking at a press conference on October 7, National Olympic Committee of Cambodia secretary-general Vath Chamroeun said Cambodia would stage the ASEAN University Games in 2028 with all 11 ASEAN countries participating. He said the Asian Para Games would follow in 2029, then the Asian Youth Games in 2031, with 45 countries involved in each.
Chamroeun outlined three priorities for the domestic competitions: opening and closing ceremonies and related programmes, maintaining high competition standards, and demonstrating what he called “a small country with a big heart”. He said the gathering of athletes and students from 25 capital and provincial administrations required arrangements for lodging, meals, transport, health and safety, security and public order.
Sports Events and Statistics Department director Huot Sengtry said there would be 32 sports in the National Games and 10 in the para competition. The combined programme comprises 304 events involving 4,773 coaches and athletes. Alongside the 25 administrations, participants will represent the Ministry of National Defence, Ministry of Interior and Ministry of Economy and Finance.
Prime Minister Hun Manet will preside over the official opening at the National Olympic Stadium on November 7 at 6pm. The stadium will also stage the closing ceremony on November 13, presided over by Deputy Prime Minister and Education Minister Hang Chuon Naron.
