The 2025 World Abilitysport Games were declared open last night in a dazzling display of Thailand’s rich culture and hospitality with traditional dance and music welcoming the athletes, staff and officials from 38 nations from 5 continents to Nakhon Ratchasima.

As part of the evening’s traditions, the Athletes’ Oath was presented by Thailand’s Para fencer, Jana Saysunee, representing the host nation’s commitment to fair play and clean sport. The Coaches’ Oath was read by Singapore’s Shooting Para Sport Coach, Dennis Tan followed by the Officials’ Oath read by World Para Fencing Technical Delegate, Tatia Aptsiauri.

The Opening Ceremony saw Mr. Anupong Suksomnit, Governor of Nakhon Ratchasima Province preside over proceedings with welcoming speeches from World Abilitysport President, Mr. Rudi Van den Abbeele, Mr. Maitree Kongruang, President of the Sports Association for the Disabled of Thailand, General Pisan Wattanawongkiri, Senior Advisor of the Sports Association for the Disabled of Thailand and Mr. Sompong Chanthri, Director of the Sports Authority of Thailand, Region 3.

Following the Ceremony, World Abilitysport President, Rudi Van den Abbeele said, “World Abilitysport are delighted to be back in Nakhon Ratchasima; a province that has welcomed World Abilitysport with warmth on many occasions as it continues to demonstrate its unwavering commitment to the promotion of Para sport.”

“We have no doubt that the hospitality that has been shown to the teams in previous years will make for another memorable Games. Thank you Nakhon Ratchasima. Thank you Thailand!”

The Ceremony also included a moving tribute to the late Queen Mother of Thailand who passed away in October for whom the country continue to observe a period of national mourning.