Somporn Saibanyang states that the Thai women's volleyball team must win at least two matches to avoid relegation in the 2026 VNL.
After the Thai women's national volleyball team performed poorly, losing four matches in the first week of the 2026 Volleyball Nations League (VNL), accumulating only 2 points and ranking 17th, second to last, fans have become concerned that the team might be relegated and unable to compete next year.
Mr. Somporn Saibanyang, president of the Volleyball Association of Thailand, believes that in the remaining eight matches, the Thai women's volleyball team must win at least two games and ideally three to ensure they avoid relegation.
“There may be some disappointment that we couldn’t win any matches in the first week. Personally, am I regretful or saddened? Not too much, but I do feel some regret, especially in the matches against China and Belgium where we had chances but failed to capitalize. However, I am pleased that the coaching staff, especially the players, followed the management’s directive to give their best according to their potential, unite as one team, fight hard, and maintain the team’s cultural spirit of smiling and positivity. The players succeeded in this and deserve praise and encouragement. The absence of key players due to injury and some still recovering physically likely affected the team.”
“The experience from these four games calls for the coaches and staff to review and discuss strategies together, including with the players. For the remaining eight matches, we must strive to win at least two games, and to be absolutely safe from relegation, three wins are necessary. This matter will be further discussed by the coaching staff. I also want to thank Thai volleyball fans for their support and encouragement. After discussing following the first four matches, everyone is determined to continue fighting and give their best effort to remain in the VNL.”
The Thai women's national volleyball team will return to compete in VNL 2026 in week 2 from 17 to 21 June 2026 at the Indoor Stadium Huamark.
On 17 June 2026 at 20:30, they will face Ukraine.
On 18 June 2026 at 20:30, they will face Bulgaria.
On 20 June 2026 at 20:30, they will face Canada.
On 21 June 2026 at 20:30, they will face the Netherlands.
Week 3 will take place in Kansai, Japan, from 8 to 13 July 2026.
On 8 July 2026 at 13:30, they will face the United States.
On 9 July 2026 at 17:20, they will face Japan.
On 11 July 2026 at 13:30, they will face Brazil.
On 12 July 2026 at 13:30, they will face Turkey.