Bangkok: Thailand is set to host the 2025 Kickboxing World Cup at the Bangkok Youth Center, Thai-Japan Stadium, Din Daeng, Bangkok from April 7-12, 2025.
According to Thai News Agency, this world-ranking event, organized by the Kickboxing Association of Thailand under the guidance of the World Kickboxing Federation (WAKO), marks the first time a major kickboxing competition will be held in Southeast Asia. The event coincides with the Songkran Festival, offering athletes and officials a chance to experience Thai culture and traditions, which is expected to boost tourism in the country.
The Kickboxing Association of Thailand, a member of WAKO and the Kickboxing Federation of Asia (WAKO ASIA), collaborates with several government bodies and private sector entities, including the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT), the National Sports Development Fund (NSDF), and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), to host this significant event. The private sector is led by ‘Wanissa’, a brand known for its natural mineral water. This collective effort aims to ensure a successful competition that promotes sportsmanship and unity among athletes worldwide.
The decision to hold the event in Thailand reflects the country’s growing prominence in the kickboxing world, with improvements noted in training venues, youth participation, and professional competitions. Mr. Pai Lik, President of the Kickboxing Association of Thailand, expressed his honor in hosting the event, emphasizing the adherence to international standards of fairness, safety, and excellence. The competition is expected to showcase thrilling matches, foster new talent, and strengthen global kickboxing friendships.
The ‘Thailand Kickboxing World Cup 2025’ will feature competitions for various age groups, including general and youth categories. The general category, for those aged 19-40, includes full contact, low kick, K1 style, point fighting, light contact, and kick light, with numerous weight classes for both men and women. The youth category includes divisions for ages 15-18, with specific competitions and weight classes tailored for different age groups.
In addition to the sporting events, participants and spectators will have the opportunity to enjoy the Songkran Festival, which occurs from April 13-15. This traditional Thai New Year celebration includes customs such as pouring water on elders, bathing Buddha images, and building sand pagodas, alongside lively activities like water fights and music festivals. These festivities will be held at various locations, including Khao San Road, Silom, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, and Phuket.
Visitors will also have the chance to explore Bangkok’s iconic attractions, such as the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Sri Rattana Satsadaram, Wat Arun Ratchawararam, and popular shopping areas like MBK Center and Siam Paragon. Other provinces, such as Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Pattaya, offer additional tourist attractions. The event is expected to contribute significantly to both sports development and tourism in Thailand.
