Thailand is set to welcome global volleyball teams to its renowned cities this August, as it gears up to host the 2025 FIVB Women`s Volleyball World Championship. This marks a historic first for Southeast Asia, signifying a pivotal moment for a nation recognized as a powerhouse in regional volleyball.
Scheduled from August 22nd to September 7th, the championship will feature 32 national teams competing across four host cities: Bangkok, Nakhon Ratchasima, Chiang Mai, and Phuket.
As host nation, Thailand will lead Pool A, competing against the Netherlands, Sweden, and Egypt. All group stage matches for this pool will be held in Bangkok. Thailand`s opening match is against Egypt on August 22nd, followed by Sweden on August 24th, and the Netherlands on August 26th, all at the Huamark Indoor Stadium in the capital.
Thailand is an experienced contender at the World Championship, with the 2025 tournament marking their seventh participation since their debut in 1998. Their highest achievement has been 13th place, reached four times, most recently in 2022. The 2022 campaign notably included a historic victory over the Dominican Republic, their first against the Caribbean team in a major competition.
Throughout the years, Thailand has established itself as one of Asia`s most consistent and formidable teams globally. Their distinctive playing style – characterized by speed, dynamism, and technical prowess – emphasizes agility, precise timing, and accuracy. This unique approach enables them to effectively challenge taller, more physically imposing opponents. The team`s strong spirit, unity, and unwavering perseverance are widely recognized and admired.
The squad`s strength lies in its core group of key players, including setter Pornpun Guedpard, hitters Ajcharaporn Kongyot, Chatchu-on Moksri, and Pimpichaya Kokram, middle blockers Hattaya Bamrungsuk and Thatdao Nuekjang, and libero Piyanut Pannoy. The consistency of this seasoned group over several seasons has fostered strong chemistry and invaluable experience, crucial for top-tier performance.
Preparations for the 2025 championship have been significantly bolstered by the FIVB Volleyball Empowerment programme. Since 2023, the Thailand Volleyball Association has benefited from $84,000 in dedicated coaching support for its women`s national team. This assistance has been instrumental in solidifying long-term developmental frameworks and maintaining a consistent training environment in anticipation of major competitions.
The home advantage offers a significant boost. Known for their fervent support, Thai fans are anticipated to generate an electric atmosphere, propelling their team forward. With Bangkok also hosting the crucial knockout rounds and the final, the Thai squad has an exceptional opportunity to advance deep into the tournament, cheered on by their devoted supporters.
This championship further underscores Thailand`s increasing capability to organize major global events. Backed by government support, enhanced venues, and robust corporate collaborations, the World Championship is poised to leave a lasting legacy on the nation`s sports development and foster greater fan involvement.
Bolstered by enthusiastic home support and the ongoing benefits of the Volleyball Empowerment programme, Thailand aims to perform at their best, leverage their experience, and seize this unique chance to excel in the most significant volleyball event ever hosted on their soil.
Oliver Wrenwick 
Finley Blackwood