Mr. Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, President of the Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), revealed on Thursday (Oct 5) that Thailand was selected by FIFA to host the 74th annual general meeting at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC), reports the Bangkok Post.
The Congress serves as a platform for FIFA members from 211 associations worldwide to nominate themselves to host the FIFA World Cup and propose candidates for the FIFA presidency. With over a thousand delegates from around the world, the event will also decide the host country for the Women’s World Cup 2027.
The successful bid to host FIFA Congress 2024 is the outcome of a collaborative effort between TCEB and the Football Association of Thailand, supported by the Ministry of Tourism and Sports under the “One Ministry One Convention” initiative.
FIFA’s official confirmation of Thailand as the host nation paves the way for potential co-hosting of the FIFA World Cup with other ASEAN countries, as one of FIFA’s requirements for hosting the World Cup is to have previously hosted the FIFA Congress.
This milestone event is expected to inject approximately B38.31 million into Thailand’s economy, adding around B21.25mn in value. Beyond economic benefits, it positions Thailand as a global sports community destination.
A recent visit by five FIFA representatives in September 2023 assessed the venue’s readiness, with TCEB committed to providing full support and seamless immigration services during the Congress through the MICE Lane service.