Japan Local Governor Blasts Thai Team Over Defective Asian Games Meal Critique

The Thai delegation's criticism of substandard meals at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, which concluded on October 4, has sparked backlash after a local Japanese government head made the remark that they "should not have come in the first place."

During a regular press conference on October 7, Aichi Prefecture Governor Hideaki Omura sharply criticized a Thai national team official in the new Asian Games sport of teqball for posting about the poor meal conditions on social media.

Previously, a Thai team coach uploaded a video exposing the poor meal conditions, highlighting meager bento box portions that fell far short of what adult athletes need and limited side dish options.

Governor Omura stated, "I wonder if (the poster) came just to get views," adding, "If they are that kind of person, I wish they hadn't come."

He dismissed the Thai side's pointing out of the poor meals as a mere attempt to generate social media buzz.

As this news spread, major Thai media outlets and public opinion immediately pushed back.

The Thai daily Khao Sod reported extensively through its online edition that the governor of Aichi Prefecture criticized Thai athletes over the meal issue.

Khao Sod added that criticism is emerging within Japan as well regarding Governor Omura's remarks, with comments calling them "too harsh."

Local social media is also flooded with posts criticizing the governor's arrogant attitude, such as, "Arrogant and haughty. I hope a person like this never comes to Thailand either," and "Japanese people blame others before reflecting on themselves."

Frustrations had already been mounting on the Thai side during this Asian Games due to a series of operational glitches, including delays in athletes checking into their accommodations and delayed shuttle buses.

With the emotional remarks of the head of the local government added to the mix, operational friction surrounding the event is showing signs of escalating into a public opinion battle and diplomatic war of words between the two countries.

Teqball was added as a sport to the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games under the condition that the organizing committee would not cover its expenses.

Last month, the organizing committee explained that "the meals in question were not directly provided by the committee."
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.