In a revolution for Thai football, Nualphan Lamsam has become the first woman president of the Football Association of Thailand (FAT) in its 103-year history. Nualphan’s victory has not only shattered glass ceilings but also triggered a wave of optimism for the nation’s footballing future.

Nualphan’s journey to the summit of Thai football administration is nothing short of remarkable. Winning a resounding mandate of 68 out of 73 votes in the FAT General Assembly Election, she solidified her place as a trailblazer in Thailand’s football governance. She is also the first woman in Asia – and only seventh worldwide – to helm a national football association.

After Nualphan secured the presidency, accolades poured in from international footballing dignitaries, including FIFA president Gianni Infantino and AFC president Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa, recognizing the significance of her triumph.

 Wide-ranging experience

With a diverse professional background spanning roles as diverse as president and CEO of Muang Thai Insurance, ex-chairwoman of Port Football Club, and former manager of both the Thai women’s and men’s national teams, Nualphan brings a wealth of experience and a deep-rooted passion for the beautiful game to her new role.

Her journey to the presidency has been marked by perseverance, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, qualities that have endeared her to football enthusiasts across the nation.

Having secured the top job, Nualphan wasted no time in outlining her vision for the future of Thai football.

In a statement packed with determination and optimism, she expressed her unwavering commitment to the sport as reflected in her 16-year journey in football administration. From her early days as manager of the Thai women’s national team to her tenure as president of Port FC, Nualphan’s trajectory has been defined by a tireless pursuit of success and a steadfast dedication to the advancement of Thai football.

One of Nualphan’s most notable achievements at Port FC was the club’s meteoric rise from League 2 to League 1 within just two years. Under her leadership, Port FC not only ascended to the top tier but also secured FA Cup glory in 2019, marking a first for the club and solidifying Nualphan’s reputation as a visionary leader.

Her success at the club level was mirrored on the international stage, where she led the Thai women’s national team to their first FIFA Women’s World Cup appearances in 2015 and 2019, elevating the profile of women’s football in the country.

Difficulties and challenges

However, as FAT president, Nualphan faces a myriad of challenges ranging from declining fan enthusiasm to financial difficulties plaguing the organization.

However, she appears determined to turn things around as she embarks on a mission to restore Thai football to its former glory. Teaming up with influential figures such as former striker Piyaong Pue-on, Nualphan has outlined a comprehensive strategy to address these challenges and usher in a new era of growth and prosperity for the sport.

Chief among these challenges is the restoration of Thai football’s status on the international stage. Despite past successes including a triumph in the 2023 AFF (Asean) Cup, Thailand has faltered in recent years, yielding ground to formidable regional rivals like Vietnam. Victory in the SEA Games, a feat not achieved since 2013, remains elusive for this generation of Thai players.

But the most daunting task for Nualphan will be securing a berth for Thailand in the FIFA World Cup Finals. Despite decades of trying, no FAT administration has managed to achieve this elusive feat. Thailand’s best attempt so far is a place in the third and final stage of Asian Qualifying. With the next stage-two qualifier against Asian giants South Korea in March, Nualphan and her newly appointed head coach, Masatada Ishii of Japan, face an uphill task to meet the expectations of Thai fans.

 Far-reaching ambitions

Central to Nualphan’s vision for the future of Thai football is the revitalization of grassroots development through initiatives like the Youth League, aimed at nurturing young talent and providing them with the skills and opportunities to succeed at the highest level.

Additionally, she has pledged to prioritize transparency and integrity in the FAT, ensuring that all financial transactions are conducted with the utmost accountability and openness.

In her quest to reinvigorate the Thai game, Nualphan has also emphasized the importance of engaging with fans and stakeholders at every level of the sport. Recognizing the pivotal role that supporters play in footballing success, she has vowed to open a two-way channel of communication with Thai football fans, soliciting their feedback and input on key decisions affecting the sport’s future.

As a woman in a male-dominated sport, Nualphan epitomizes the spirit of resilience, determination, and innovation that defines Thai football. Her historic presidency marks a turning point, signaling a new era of inclusivity, progress, and opportunity for football enthusiasts across the nation. With her visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to excellence, Nualphan has the opportunity to leave an indelible mark on the future of Thai football for generations to come.

By Thai PBS World’s Sport Desk