Supamas explained the reason for shelving the plan to buy the 2026 World Cup broadcast rights, citing high costs that cannot be justified to the public and a lack of private sector interest. She pointed out that compared to other countries, the price is 10-20 times higher. She emphasized that if the price is not fair, the money should be saved for other uses rather than spent.
At 9:38 a.m. on 19 May 2026 at the Government House, Supamas Isarapakdi, Minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office, addressed rumors that the government is backing down from buying the 2026 World Cup broadcast rights for the tournament held from 11 June to 19 July in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. She said the Prime Minister sincerely wishes for Thai people to enjoy the World Cup next month. Last week, the Cabinet resolved to have the Public Relations Department consult with government agencies, the private sector, and the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC), which supported the previous round. However, after discussions, it was found that the situation has changed due to the Middle East conflict, and broadcast times are also different, reducing opportunities for increased sales at restaurants and similar venues.
Regarding the proposed license fee offered to Thailand, Supamas said she could not disclose the amount due to FIFA regulations. However, the fee is so high that it cannot be explained to the public. Thailand’s population is nearly 70 million, whereas other countries have about 1.5 billion people—20 times more—but pay slightly lower fees. On a per capita basis, the cost difference is about 10 to 20 times. Given the current economic challenges and the importance of citizens’ livelihoods, the government sees the proposed fee as too high. Additionally, no private sponsors have come forward as they did before, since the broadcast times are not suitable and advertising sales are more difficult than in the past.
Supamas added that four years ago, there was funding from the NBTC and private sector support. This time, there is no private sector sponsorship. As the official overseeing the Public Relations Department, she will present the information at the Cabinet meeting to seek opinions on how to proceed. Regarding alternative ways for Thais to watch the World Cup, Supamas said they are currently checking with FIFA amid rumors that FIFA offers paid viewing options that people might access, or that some matches might be broadcast for 5–10 minutes. However, details are still unclear. When asked if the public can give up hope that the government will pursue purchasing the rights, Supamas said they must wait to see if any private companies see business opportunities, as there is still some time left.
On whether the rights holders might lower the price, Supamas said they must wait and see, but any proposed fee must be justifiable to the public. If the price is unfair, the money should be kept for other purposes. When asked if the license fee figures align with previous rumors, she said she is not the source of those rumors and does not know where they originated.
Regarding whether the government has completely shelved the project, Supamas said the government still wants to support the World Cup as it helps nurture youth. However, there are many ways to support Thai football, and at this time, the investment may not be worthwhile. Each case must be evaluated individually. She reiterated that the public should wait for the Cabinet meeting’s outcome, which is expected to be followed by a press conference.