In 2024, Thailand hosted the FIFA Futsal World Cup for the first time in its history. The tournament took place from September 17 to October 6, 2024 and became one of the most exciting sporting events of the year in Asia. It was organized by the Football Association of Thailand (FAT) with support from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA).
Matches were held at three main venues:
- Indoor Stadium Huamark (Bangkok): final, semi-finals, opening;
- Chang Arena (Buriram): group stage;
- Nakhon Ratchasima Indoor Stadium: group and knockout stages.
Record Attendance
The tournament attracted over 380,000 spectators, setting a new record for FIFA Futsal World Cups. Tickets for key matches, including the final, were sold out two months in advance.
The final between Brazil and Portugal at Huamark Stadium drew 12,000 fans — the arena’s maximum capacity.
Organization & Infrastructure
Major upgrades were completed before the event:
- Renovation of Huamark Stadium: new flooring, seating, lighting, video boards — cost: 2.3 billion THB;
- Enhanced security: 500 cameras, drones, mobile aid stations;
- Transport: special shuttle buses, extended BTS and MRT hours;
- Multilingual support: 1,200 volunteers, hotline 1843.
Sports Results
Brazil won the tournament, defeating Portugal 3–2 in the final. Thailand’s national team impressed, finishing in 7th place — their best-ever result.
Thai fans were praised by FIFA for their incredible support and stadium atmosphere.
Economic Impact
According to the Ministry of Tourism, the event brought the country:
- Direct revenue: 9.8 billion THB (tourism, tickets, merch, broadcasting);
- Indirect revenue: +15% increase in hotel and restaurant revenue in Bangkok, Buriram, Nakhon Ratchasima;
- Employment: temporary jobs for 18,000 people (event staff, security, services).
Tournament Legacy 2024–2025
FIFA and FAT announced the creation of a National Futsal Academy at Huamark Stadium. Expected:
- Expansion of youth futsal leagues nationwide;
- Training of coaches and referees to international standards;
- Launch of the Futsal Pro League in 2025;
- International recognition of Thailand as Asia’s futsal hub.
"This tournament changed how futsal is seen in Thailand," said FAT President Somchai Pumsawali. "We didn’t just host a World Cup — we built the future of sport."
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