Hanoi, 7 December 2025 – Led by Deputy Director of the Vietnam Sports Authority and Head of Delegation Nguyen Hong Minh, Vietnam’s first SEA Games 33 contingent departed from Noi Bai Airport this morning, carrying the determination to shine on the biggest sporting stage in Southeast Asia.
On the morning of 7 December, the first group of the Vietnam sports delegation officially departed for Thailand from Noi Bai International Airport to begin their SEA Games 33 campaign. The contingent, headed by Deputy Director of the Vietnam Sports Authority and Chief of Mission Nguyen Hong Minh, marks the start of Vietnam’s journey at a regional event where pride, responsibility, and national ambition converge.
SEA Games 33 will officially open on 9 December, and this year’s edition is more than a multi-sport competition. It represents a stage where the spirit, resilience, and aspiration of Vietnamese sports will once again be tested. Every Vietnamese athlete stepping into competition carries the honour of the national flag, the trust of millions of fans, and a profound sense of duty to the homeland.
Vietnam is participating with a delegation of 1,165 members, including 842 athletes, 189 coaches, and 19 experts across 47 of the event’s 66 sports, competing in 443 out of 573 medal events. Among the first group travelling to Thailand today are officials and several teams, including cycling, canoeing, swimming, jet ski, sepak takraw, and artistic gymnastics. They are expected to land in Thailand around 11:30 AM.
Speaking before departure, Head of Delegation Nguyen Hong Minh emphasised the significance of this SEA Games edition. He noted that the event is a key opportunity to reaffirm Vietnam’s regional position while also serving as preparation for ASIAD 2026 and the 2028 Olympic Games. According to him, Vietnamese athletes enter SEA Games 33 not only to compete but to embody national pride and determination.
He underscored the thorough and strategic preparation undertaken over the past year. Following SEA Games 32, the Vietnam Sports Authority conducted a comprehensive review of the national athlete and coaching system, identifying key sports aligned with Olympic priorities. National teams were reinforced, and exceptional talents were selected to form the core of the SEA Games 33 squad.
Training programmes were organised methodically, ensuring athletes progressed through scientifically structured cycles. Teams were stationed at national training centres to enhance fitness, refine technical skills, and strengthen tactical execution. Many sports were also sent abroad for training and international exposure, helping athletes elevate their competitive mentality and adapt to global trends. Modern sports science — from biomechanics and nutrition to performance analysis and injury recovery — played a vital role in boosting overall readiness.
Foreign experts continued to work closely with priority teams, contributing to tactical development and technical consistency. Logistics and financial planning were also meticulously prepared, ensuring athletes have optimal equipment, facilities, and support throughout the Games. Y medical teams were mobilised to monitor athlete health, especially during periods of high-intensity training. Anti-doping education was reinforced to ensure full compliance with WADA standards and protect the integrity of Vietnamese sports.
All delegation members were briefed on discipline, conduct, and operational regulations. Coordination plans with the SEA Games 33 Organising Committee and the Vietnamese Embassy in Thailand have been established to ensure safety, security, and seamless communication during the Games.
With strong preparation, united determination, and the hopes of an entire nation behind them, the Vietnam sports delegation now embarks on their SEA Games 33 mission — aiming to compete with honour, pursue excellence, and bring home outstanding achievements for the country.
Hong Tien
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