FIFA has officially announced that Thailand will serve as the host nation for the FIFA Women’s Series 2026, marking a historic milestone as the first Asian country selected to stage the pilot edition of the global tournament.
The Football Association of Thailand (FAT) confirmed it has received formal approval from world football’s governing body following a successful hosting proposal spearheaded by FAT president Nualphan Lamsam.
The competition will take place in Ratchaburi province from April 9 to 15, with matches staged at venues across the region.
The FIFA Series is a newly introduced international initiative aimed at expanding opportunities in the women’s game by bringing together national teams from different continents in a single competitive platform.
FIFA hopes the project will encourage greater global participation while offering meaningful match exposure outside traditional tournament structures.
According to FIFA, the series is designed to allow players, coaches and fans to experience diverse footballing styles, while also supporting long-term development both on and off the pitch.
The governing body has also highlighted the tournament’s role in promoting cultural exchange and helping the sport reach new audiences worldwide.
Thailand, currently ranked 53rd in the FIFA Women’s World Rankings, will compete alongside DR Congo (109th), Nepal (89th), and one yet-to-be-confirmed representative from the Oceania region. Each participating team will play two matches during the event.
The opening fixtures on April 12 will decide which sides advance to the final. The two winners will meet in the championship match, while the remaining teams will contest a third-place playoff on April 15 at Ratchaburi Stadium.
For Thailand, hosting the tournament represents a significant sporting achievement and a valuable opportunity to highlight the country’s improving football infrastructure and commitment to women’s football development.
