Bangkok: The 'Chang Junior Cup 2026' has finalized its selection of 16 teams to compete in Thailand's national championship, offering young players the opportunity to win the prestigious Dream Prize.
According to Thai News Agency, "Chang Natural Mineral Water" continues to support Thai youth football through the "Chang Junior Cup 2026," a tournament for U-13 players. This initiative aims to nurture young talent by providing opportunities for growth, including exclusive Dream Prizes such as the "Most Talented Player" award and "Chang Sportsmanship Awards." Winners will also experience world-class football in England.
The draw ceremony for the Chang Junior Cup 2026 Thailand National Championship was held on June 2, 2026, at the ThaiBev Quarter Building. Present at the event were Mr. Rojanasit Meenijsin, Assistant Director of Sports at Thai Beverage Public Company Limited, Mr. Suwit Prangchan, Chairman of the Chang Junior Cup 2026 Organizing Committee, and team representatives.
Mr. Rojanasit Meenichsin highlighted the enthusiastic response from youth nationwide, with over 300 teams registering. The competition began with regional qualifying rounds, resulting in 10 representative teams advancing to join 6 leading Thai clubs in the national championship. The 16 teams will compete for the Dream Prize, which includes a team trip to England to experience professional football. Additional awards for Most Talented Player and Chang Sportsmanship will offer winners advanced training and friendly matches in England.
Over the past 11 years, the Chang Junior Cup has played a crucial role in developing Thai youth football. Alumni like "Bank" Supanat Mueanta and "C4" Kakana Khamyok have gone on to join top clubs and the Thai national team, underscoring the tournament's significance in fostering future football stars.
The 16 qualifying teams include champions from various zones: Assumption Sriracha School, Municipal Plookpanya School, Ban Kao Wittaya School, Somapapatthana School, Nong Bua Pitchaya FC Academy, and Uthai Thani FC. They will compete alongside youth teams from top clubs such as Chonburi FC, Assumption Thonburi School, Buriram United Academy, Police Tero FC, Royal Thai Army FC, and Royal Thai Navy FC.
The group draw results are as follows: Group A features Chonburi FC, Pathum Khongka School, Buriram United Academy, and Assumption Thonburi School. Group B includes Uthai Thani FC, Royal Navy FC, Police Tero FC, and Nongbua Pitchaya Academy FC. Group C comprises Royal Thai Army FC, Best Academy, Chaosua Noi, and Somapaphatthana School. Group D consists of Assumption Sriracha School, Ban Kao Wittaya School, Kanjana Forest School, and Municipal Plukpanya School.
Mr. Rojanasit Meenichsin emphasized the competition's role in developing new generation players through learning from coaches and experiencing world-class football, in collaboration with partners like the Football Association of Thailand and Leicester City Football Club.
The Chang Junior Cup 2026 Thailand Championship will kick off with group stage matches at the ThaiBev Football Academy in Bangkok from June 3-5, 2026. The quarter-finals are on June 10, with the semi-finals and final on June 13-14 at Inthri Chantharasathit Stadium, Kasetsart University, Bangkok. The winning team will receive an exclusive experience in England, while other top teams will receive scholarships. Special awards will also be given for outstanding players.
Stay updated on the Chang Junior Cup 2026 through Facebook and YouTube: ThaiBev ThaiTalent.