Thai athletes’ Olympic uniform looks like waiter’s outfit

The grand reveal of Thailand‘s Olympic uniform for the Paris Games has set social media ablaze, with critics slamming the design as outdated and unfit for the global stage.

Unveiled yesterday, July 17, on Stadium TH’s Facebook page, the uniform, modelled by national badminton star Sapsiree Taerattanachai, sparked a storm of controversy. The design, inspired by the Phraratchathan (Royally Bestowed) long-sleeved suit often worn by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and senior officials, features light blue Thai silk and a mandarin collar.

“Is this the Olympic uniform or something a provincial governor would wear to a local sports event?”

“Paris Tambon Administrative Organisation (TAO), Sawasdee.”

While some appreciated the use of traditional Thai fabric, they felt the design was outdated.

“The uniform looks like something worn to a TAO event. It should be more modern.”

Criticism escalated when Pansak Vinyaratn, a former advisor to multiple prime ministers, bluntly stated he was not happy with the outfit on Facebook.

“This looks like the uniform of a waiter in a two-star hotel or a district-level restaurant.”

Renowned architect Duangrit Bunnag added fuel to the fire.

“All my friends complained last night. So sad.”

He urged the Thai premier to mobilise designers for a redesign, stressing that there is still time for change, reported Thai PBS World.

As the debate rages on, the Olympic Committee faces mounting pressure to rethink the attire.

In related news, the Paris Olympic Games are projected to draw fewer visitors than initially expected, prompting the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) to anticipate a resurgence in the French market post-event. The TAT forecasts 42 billion baht in revenue from French tourists in 2024.

In other news, during his address at the Government House, the Thai prime minister expressed his support for Thailand’s 2024 Olympic contingent, urging them to give their utmost in Paris. He also vowed to boost funding for national athletes and extend support beyond their sporting careers.