Thailand is seeking clarification from Saudi Arabia of its last-minute withdrawal from the Asian Games, due to start in Bangkok in ten days.

The official Saudi reason is that the closing phase of the Games coincides with the Muslim holy month of Ramadan and Saudi royal celebrations.

However, Thai officials say they believe the real cause stems from the tense relationship between the two countries since the murder of three Saudi diplomats in Thailand in 1990.

The Saudi withdrawal is the latest of a catalogue of problems to beset the Games, including removal of sponsorship, unfinished buildings and low ticket sales.