The Thai government is gearing up to host the 74th FIFA Congress, a major milestone for Thailand as it becomes the first ASEAN nation and the fifth in Asia to organize this prestigious global football gathering. The event is scheduled to take place from May 13-17 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok.
The announcement came from a coalition of the government, the Sports Authority of Thailand, the Football Association of Thailand under Royal Patronage, the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), and FIFA.
Minister of Tourism and Sports Sermsak Pongpanit described the congress as a key international event, anticipating the arrival of FIFA members from 211 countries and an audience exceeding 3,000 attendees, in addition to global television viewers. The event is expected to boost Thailand’s tourism and showcase the nation’s cultural heritage and hospitality, which is aligned with Thailand’s “Soft Power” strategy.
Football Association of Thailand President Nualphan Lamsam expressed her appreciation for the extensive support from the government and various agencies that enabled Thailand to secure the congress’s hosting rights and a meeting to select the host country for the Women’s World Cup 2027.
Sports Authority of Thailand Governor Gongsak Yodmanee stated that FIFA’s recognition of Thailand’s capability to host a major event such as this would foster greater interest and participation in football across the country, especially among the youth.
TCEB Director Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya also discussed the expected economic impact of the congress, predicting it would generate substantial revenue and employment opportunities. He detailed that the event is projected to bring in about 228 million baht ($6.7 million) in revenue and add 126 million baht ($3.7 million) in value to the Thai economy while creating more than 160 jobs. The TCEB director attributed the successful bid to a cooperative effort between the agency and the Thai Football Association, supported by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, under the “One Ministry One Convention” initiative.
The 74th FIFA Congress is set to be a standout event in the international sports calendar, allowing Thailand to demonstrate its readiness and capacity to host major international gatherings, reinforcing its position as a hub for sports and cultural tourism. (NNT)
