Phang Nga Readies Venue for 2026 Asian Beach Soccer Championship
Phang Nga Vice Governor Sarawut Thanacharoensakul led a blessing ceremony at the Ban Nam Khem Tsunami Memorial, the venue for the 2026 Asian Beach Soccer Championship, and visited injured national team star Rattaphong Na Dee, who suffered a nail puncture wound. Officials confirmed the beach venue is on track with a 2,000-seat main stadium, training pitches, broadcast facilities, and a fan zone, expecting at least 2,000 spectators for the tournament.
On November 2, Phang Nga Vice Governor Sarawut Thanacharoensakul, accompanied by Takua Pa District Chief, Ban Mueang Subdistrict Administrative Organization President, working groups, representatives from the Beach Soccer Division of the Football Association of Thailand, relevant agencies, and the Thai national beach soccer team, traveled to conduct a blessing ceremony at the Ban Nam Khem Spirit Shrine, the sacred Buddha image, and the Ban Nam Khem Tsunami Memorial in Takua Pa District, which will host the 2026 Asian Beach Soccer Championship, to ensure auspiciousness and a smooth competition.
After the ceremony, the delegation visited "Art" Rattaphong Na Dee, the national team's star striker, who unfortunately suffered a nail puncture through his foot. They advised him to seek immediate specialist treatment at Khao Lak Medical Center and coordinated with the hospital for close and urgent care so he can recover in time for the tournament. The young player reported the pain is considerable but he will rehabilitate fully to return to the pitch and help the team within this week.
Later, "Mayor Aem" Lertsak Panklin, President of the Phang Nga Tourism Business Association and Deputy Tournament Director, revealed progress on the sand pitch construction at the Ban Nam Khem Tsunami Memorial beach area. The sand has been graded into two training pitches and one main competition pitch. The main pitch has been elevated 1.8 meters, with stands accommodating 1,350 seats plus VIP blocks and additional zones for roughly 600 more, totaling approximately 2,000 seats.
Additionally, 20 tents have been erected including four dressing rooms, a referee room, broadcast room, media room, medical room, and competition operations room. One hundred thousand BTU air conditioners, 20 units sourced from Hat Yai District, have been ordered for installation to handle both rain and intense heat. A fan zone is being created for pre-match activities, along with a giant screen for supporters unable to enter the stadium but wishing to cheer on the national team. At least 2,000 fans are expected to attend. After the tournament concludes, Phang Nga Province will repurpose the venue for future major sporting events.
