David Thid Leaves Swedish National Team to Represent Thailand Amid Trust Issues

David Thid, ranked third in Sweden in the 400 meter hurdles, has made the decision to leave the Swedish national athletics team to compete for Thailand. This announcement was confirmed in a press release issued by the Swedish Athletics Federation on July 28, 2026. The 23-year-old athlete, who holds a personal best of 49.12 seconds—making him the sixth fastest Swedish hurdler ever—cited a lack of trust in the Swedish Olympic Committee (SOK) as a key factor in his decision. Thid expressed concerns about potentially being overlooked for Olympic selection despite his merit, which influenced his move to represent Thailand.

Kajsa Bergqvist, the head coach of the Swedish athletics team, described Thid's departure as a "significant loss for Swedish athletics," emphasizing the negative impact of losing such a talented athlete. Thid’s switch follows earlier national team changes in Swedish athletics, including sprinter Nora Lindahl’s move to compete for Finland earlier this year.

Thid’s choice reflects ongoing challenges within the Swedish sports system regarding athlete confidence in Olympic committee selections. His departure may raise questions about the Swedish Olympic Committee's athlete management and selection policies moving forward. Despite his relatively young age and strong performances, this development shifts the competitive landscape for Swedish athletics in the hurdles event.

The Swedish Athletics Federation’s announcement and Bergqvist’s commentary highlight the gravity of this loss. As Thid embarks on his new chapter representing Thailand, Swedish athletics faces the challenge of rebuilding depth in the 400 meter hurdles.