Thailand, as host nation, set the copyright fee for each participating country’s broadcaster at a modest $20,000. For this sum, licensed stations can rebroadcast live events produced by the host broadcaster.

For those seeking more flexibility, an additional $5,000 grants access to clean feeds - uninterrupted live signals that allow customized commentary and production.

Thailand is offering SEA Games rights at a cost far below other international sporting events such as the World Cup or Asiad, recognizing the tournament’s role in regional promotion and cultural connection.

According to Thailand’s Sports Authority (SAT), about 30 sports at SEA Games 33 will be available for live broadcast. All licensing and coordination are managed through each country’s National Olympic Committee.

Vietnamese media embraces the SEA Games spirit

thai lan.jpg
Thailand is ready to host SEA Games 33.

In Vietnam, broadcasters have enthusiastically joined the effort.

FPT Play was among the first to secure SEA Games 33 rights. It plans to stream 29 sports provided by the host and will independently produce live coverage for events not included in the Thai broadcast.

The company is sending a 20-member crew to Thailand for on-site production. Additionally, five mobile reporting teams will be stationed at various venues to deliver breaking updates and local color.

FPT Play also announced the launch of several special programs: SEA Games 33: Tiến lên Việt Nam and Hướng tới SEA Games, offering talkshows, athlete interviews, and behind-the-scenes content.

"We’re committed to bringing every moment of SEA Games 33 to Vietnamese audiences, especially the stories of our athletes," said a representative.

Meanwhile, national broadcaster VTV also confirmed its involvement. With extensive experience in covering international sporting events, VTV plans to air over 30 sports - both live and delayed - across its multiple channels.

Its signature accompanying programs, such as SEA Games Diary, Inside the Arena, SEA Games Close-Up, and Expert Commentary, are expected to provide depth, context, and insight into the competition.

Another rights holder is VTC, which is launching a dedicated Vietnam Sports Channel in partnership with the Department of Sports and Physical Training.

SEA Games 33 content will be distributed primarily on this new channel and through VTC’s digital ecosystem - VTC ONE - while also sharing broadcast rights with local television and media platforms to maximize reach.

VTC aims to blend traditional expertise with modern expression. Alongside veteran commentators and coaches, the network will bring in Gen Z creators, streamers, KOLs, and KOCs to deliver vibrant, youth-driven content.

“This will be a fresh, engaging way to present SEA Games coverage,” VTC’s representative shared.

Southern stations join the race

Broadcasters in southern Vietnam, including HTV and Vinh Long TV, have also obtained broadcasting rights for SEA Games 33, ensuring nationwide access to the region’s most important sporting event.

As Vietnam prepares to send a delegation of over 1,000 athletes, coaches, and staff to compete in Thailand, the collective effort from broadcasters across the country promises to capture every thrilling moment for millions of sports fans at home.

Dai Nam