Songkhla: In a press conference held at the Tinsulanon Stadium in Songkhla Province, the ‘Songkhla Cup Football 2025’ competition was announced, marking its second consecutive year. This event is a collaboration between the Songkhla Provincial Administrative Organization, government agencies, and the private sector, aiming to select Thai youth representatives under 12 years of age for the international ‘Captain Tsubasa Cup’ in Japan next year.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Supit Pitaktham, President of the Songkhla Provincial Administrative Organization, emphasized the significance of the Songkhla Cup, which features four categories spanning youth to seniors. Notably, the winning team in the under-12 category will represent Thailand at the ‘Captain Tsubasa Cup’ in Japan in January 2026. Mr. Yoichi Takahashi, the manga illustrator, will personally present the awards, offering a vital opportunity to enhance the capabilities of Thai children on an international platform.
The competition is scheduled from May 24 to June 15, 2025, with a total prize pool exceeding 1,000,000 baht. The private sector’s involvement is crucial in facilitating the participation of youth in the ‘Captain Tsubasa Cup.’
Mr. Chotinnarin Ket-som, Governor of Songkhla Province, highlighted the province’s policy to promote sports development across all levels, aiming to establish Songkhla as a ‘Sports City’ with international standards. The Songkhla Cup is a driving force behind this policy, aiming to improve the quality of life for Songkhla residents, enhance tourism, and elevate the province’s reputation nationally and internationally.
He further noted that the province’s strategic plan focuses on developing sports infrastructure, organizing competitions, and promoting participation from various sectors to advance Songkhla as a leading sports city.
Mr. Krittikorn Thanamahamongkol, CEO of Kidsidekorn, a partner in the competition, expressed his excitement about collaborating with the Captain Tsubasa Cup for the second year. The Dream Stadium project, in collaboration with Professor Yoichi Takahashi, aims to inspire children through sports and art, transforming community football fields with Captain Tsubasa cartoon lines.
The event also witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Songkhla Provincial Administrative Organization and Kidsidekhong Company to promote sending Thai youth under 12 years old to compete in the ‘Captain Tsubasa Cup’ in Japan.
The Songkhla Cup 2025 serves as a platform to showcase the potential of local youth and a gateway to developing Thai children on the global stage through sports, international cooperation, and the inspiration of the beloved cartoon character, “Captain Tsubasa.” The competition offers various cash prizes and trophies across different categories, further motivating participants.