"Coach Heng" frankly says it is still difficult for Thailand to co-host the World Cup, emphasizing that it has not yet surpassed ASEAN.
On 1 August 2026 GMT+7, "Coach Heng," Wittaya Laohakul, a 72-year-old Thai football legend, told GoodDayPodcast on YouTube that it is still difficult for Thailand to co-host the World Cup, stressing that the country has not moved beyond the ASEAN level.
The host asked about the Thai national football team’s chances of reaching the World Cup. Coach Heng replied, "Other countries have developed far beyond us. Look nearby at Singapore and Vietnam. Vietnam has a world-class training center."
"We claim we have surpassed ASEAN, but we haven't progressed at all. Surpassing means having a proper youth development structure as defined by the AFC. Even club licensing in the Thai League is lacking; many teams just make it up themselves—there is none."
"Someone has to start the direction. For example, Carles (Carles Romagosa, former Spanish technical director) came and designed what he called Thailand’s curriculum. He wrote it down, but I have not seen anyone implement it. He created a huge iceberg, with everything aligned to international standards, but we didn’t act. Now the iceberg has melted completely."
The host then asked about the chances with the World Cup expanding to 64 teams and more hosting spots, whether this would give Thailand an opportunity. Coach Heng responded,
"No, if Thailand is to be a host, there are many detailed requirements, especially regarding stadium regulations." When asked if Rajamangala Stadium meets the criteria, Coach Heng said, "It does not. Suphachalasai Stadium is even less suitable. It's not just the stadiums; there are also details like accommodations, hotels, and training grounds. Where would we put these?"