The official uniform that Thai athletes will don during the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympics was unveiled yesterday on the Facebook page of ‘Stadium TH.’ The reveal has sparked a variety of reactions from the public.
Showcased by Thai national badminton player Sapsiree Taerattanachai, the uniform is inspired by the Phraratchathan (Royally bestowed) long-sleeved suit. This attire, commonly worn by Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, his cabinet ministers, and senior government officials, is made of light blue Thai silk and features a mandarin collar.
Public opinion has been divided. One user questioned, “Is this the Olympic uniform or a uniform worn by a provincial governor to preside over a national sports event?” Another added a satirical comment, saying, “Paris Tambon Administrative Organisation (TAO), Sawasdee.” While some appreciated the use of Thai fabric, they suggested that the design should be more modern, expressing concerns that it resembled attire for local administrative events.
Critical voices were not absent. Pansak Vinyaratn, a former advisor to several prime ministers, remarked on Facebook, “This is the uniform of a waiter in a restaurant of a two-star hotel or a district-level restaurant.” Well-known architect Duangrit Bunnag shared that his friends were disappointed and called for Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin to engage designers to revamp the uniform design, noting that there is still time for changes.
In light of the criticism, some Thai people have taken to the internet to propose alternative designs for the national uniform for the Paris 2024 Olympics. Lady Sunga Couture, a Facebook user, even sought the help of AI to generate new designs, which have gained some popularity online.
The unveiling has prompted a discussion about national representation and modernity, with many hoping that the final design will be both reflective of Thai culture and appealing on the international stage.
