Bangkok: The Government Lottery Office (GLO), in partnership with the Thai Football Development Foundation, hosted a press conference and draw ceremony for the GLO Cup 2026 8-a-side youth football tournament national championship round. Lieutenant Colonel Noon Sansanakom, Director of the Government Lottery Office, led the event, joined by senior executives from the GLO and Air Chief Marshal Piyapong Pue-on, President of the Thai Football Development Foundation. Notable national football players, including Teerasil Dangda and Chanathip Songkrasin, also participated in the ceremony at the Grand Hall 2, Rama Gardens Hotel.
According to Thai News Agency, Lieutenant Colonel Noon Sansanakom highlighted the successful completion of the GLO Cup 2026 across all seven regions of Thailand. He emphasized the tournament's role in providing equal opportunities for Thai youth from various backgrounds, including schools, clubs, and communities, to showcase their talents on a national stage. The initiative aims to teach young athletes essential values such as discipline, responsibility, teamwork, and respect for the rules, which are crucial for their development as athletes and citizens.
The championship final promises to gather the top teams from each region, ensuring a competitive and engaging event. This year's competition sees well-prepared teams ready to vie for the title. Concurrently, the GLO STAR project continues to discover exceptional talent, offering them opportunities to train with Avispa Fukuoka in Japan, inspiring Thai youth to transform their dreams into reality.
Air Chief Marshal Piyapong Pue-on noted significant improvements in the quality of youth players this year, with enhanced playing systems and individual skills. He described the national championship round as the most challenging test, following rigorous regional competitions.
Teerasil Dangda, a Thai national football team member, encouraged the players reaching the national championship final, recognizing their journey through months of challenging competition. He emphasized the importance of enjoying the game and showcasing their potential.
Chanathip Songkrasin urged young players to be courageous in displaying their abilities, suggesting participation in the GLO Cup or GLO STAR as potential starting points for professional football careers. He advised maintaining self-development and dream pursuit, as opportunities can be life-changing.
The Thailand National Championship is scheduled from July 29th to August 2nd, 2026, at King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang Stadium and Supachalasai Stadium. The group stage will occur on July 29th and 30th, followed by the knockout rounds and finals on subsequent days. The GLO STAR Thailand Championship final will be on August 1, 2026, selecting top players for a training opportunity in Japan.
Football enthusiasts can follow the GLO Cup's progress and updates on the official Facebook Fanpage of the GLO Cup and the Government Lottery Office.