CHIANG RAI – The Sports Authority of Thailand hosted the Chiang Rai Sports City Fight 2025, featuring 13 Muay Thai matches that included both Thai and international athletes.
This event aimed to promote national sports, highlight Thai martial arts, and showcase local culture, thereby helping Chiang Rai establish its identity as a sports city. Organizers see it as a way to connect sport, local traditions, and everyday life in Thailand, boosting the province’s economy.
On August 23, 2025, at 7:30 PM, Mr. Rujtisak Rungsi, Deputy Governor of Chiang Rai, led the opening ceremony for the Sports City event under the Chiang Rai Sports City Fight banner. The temporary boxing ring was set up at the Kasalong open area, Central Plaza Shopping Mall, in Chiang Rai’s city district.
Ms. Chayanan Cheuasirithavorn, Director of the Chiang Rai Sports Authority office, delivered opening remarks to officials, special guests, and stakeholders. The guest list included Mr. Thanukiart Janchum from the National Sports Development Fund, Mr. Teerawat Sinlapa-acha from the Boxing Welfare Development office, Mr. Wisut Wakkawee from Regional Sports Science (Region 5), Mr. Kiatpong Boonkertwai from the Chiang Mai Sports Training Centre, Mr. Korpong Namboonjitt from the Chiang Mai Sports Authority, Ms. Pornpimon Kanniam from the Sukhothai Sports Authority, Mr. Sayan Nakboon from Central Chiang Rai, Ms. Jintana Jitsakul from Toyota Chiang Rai, Ms. Kakkanang Amranan-Onglart from Chiang Rai’s passport office, and many others.
Ms. Chayanan Cheuasirithavorn explained that the Chiang Rai Sports City Fight brings together thirteen Thai and international Muay Thai pairs, offering action-filled bouts. The Sports Authority of Thailand, part of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, views this as a major step for the development of sport across the country.
The Ministry puts a high priority on using sport to drive job creation and bring in revenue, with Muay Thai seen as a key asset. Muay Thai’s role as a part of Thailand’s “soft power” strategy links sport, local culture, and Thai ways of life, drawing in enthusiasts globally.
The hope is to make Thailand a must-visit spot for anyone interested in Muay Thai, offering travellers the chance to train with well-known fighters through special masterclasses. Events like these help local economies by creating work and circulating money.
Ms. Chayanan added that these efforts aim to raise awareness about Muay Thai, introduce the art to both Thai and international spectators, and build a strong image for Muay Thai as a major aspect of Thai heritage.
It also contributes to career growth, job creation, national pride, and tourism, helping push Chiang Rai as a true sports city. This sports event joins other activities like local food, music, regional product showcases, and local services to add even more value to Chiang Rai’s economy under the Chiang Rai Sports City Fight name.
