How did a video about lunch turn into a row with a Japanese governor?
A Thai teqball coach joked about his small lunch portion at the Asian Games. Weeks later, a Japanese governor was questioning whether those behind the video had come to compete or rack up social media views. The clip sparked a dispute over meal provision at the Aichi-Nagoya Games and a backlash over Aichi Governor Hideaki […] The post How did a video about lunch turn into a row with a Japanese…
On 17 September, a video posted by the Thai teqball team began a dispute that would involve a Japanese governor. Head coach Rewat "Oat" Phabchomphu filmed himself collecting lunch at the Asian Games venue, joking about the small portion he received. When he attempted to take another vegetable dish, a staff member told him he could only choose one.
The team members responded with laughter at the joke. The next step in the controversy emerged when the Games organising committee denied supplying the meals seen in the video, stating they were not affiliated with the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games Organising Committee (AINAGOC).
Aichi Governor Hideaki Omura weighed in on 6 October, expressing frustration over the criticism of the food service in a press conference. He questioned the intentions of those behind the posts, suggesting they may have been motivated by a desire to generate social media views. Omura, who chaired the Games organising committee, implied he would prefer such individuals not to participate. This remark caused controversy in Japan, with some criticizing the tone of a senior official hosting an international sporting event.
In response, Omura issued a clarification on 7 October through his X account. He clarified that his comments were directed at the team's manager and coaches involved in the food posts, not the entire Thai delegation. Omura maintained that he had questioned their motives, feeling it would be preferable if they had not participated. He also stated that the matter fell outside the scope of the organising committee and had requested corrections to the misleading newspaper coverage.
The Thai teqball association issued an apology on 8 October, both to the hosts and viewers, stating the video was meant to be light-hearted and unintentionally caused discomfort. Team head coach Rewat clarified that the video was filmed for fun to help his team relax, rather than lodge a complaint. He denied any intention of chasing views and affirmed his focus on competing for gold medals.
Rewat also denied holding a grudge against the governor's remarks, acknowledging that the team had been adequately cared for, though he admitted the experience may not have been fully captured on camera.
Written by urgent.news from Khaosod English's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
