Thai League 3 Expands to Six Zones With 69 Teams

Thai League 3 has finalized its structure for the 2026-27 season, dividing into six geographic zones with a total of 69 licensed clubs. The Football Association of Thailand completed its seventh Board of Directors meeting on August 10 at FA Thailand headquarters. Association president Nualprann Lamsam delegated vice-president Yuttana Yimgarun to chair the meeting, which addressed several key agenda items including participation in Thai League 3 for the 2569/70 season and approval of the U-21 Youngster League. The 69 clubs participating in Thai League 3 for 2569/70 are divided into six zones: Northern Zone (12 teams) including Chiang Mai FC, Phichit United 2025, Khlong Luang United, Northern Maesoat United, Mae Jo United, Phitsanulok FC, Chiang Rai TSC FC, Chatitrakan City, Singa Chiang Rai City, Kamphaengphet FC, National Sports University Lamphang Campus, and Pak Nam Po FC. Central Zone (12 teams) includes Pram Bangkok, North Bangkok University, Pathumthani University, Royal Thai Air Force FC, Angthong FC, Chamchuri United, Kasem Bundit University FC, Futera United, Lopburi Poma FC, Singburi Warriors, Ayutthaya PK FC, and Bangkapi FC. Northeastern Zone (12 teams) includes Udon United, Khon Kaen FC, Eastern University of Management and Technology, Ubon Kravens FC, Surin City, Roi Et PB United, Udon-Ban Jaan United, Yasothon FC, Korat City, Khon Kaen Modern Football Club, Issan Fighter FC, and Pitchayaban College. Eastern Zone (11 teams) includes Navy Football Club, Burapha United, Royal Thai Navy Football Club, Custom United, BFB Pattaya City, Plaeng Daeng United, Chachoengsao Hi-Tech FC, Navigoyotin FC, Padrio City, MNK SC, and Ban Bueng FC. Western Zone (12 teams) includes Bangkok FC, Samut Sakhon City, Thonburi United, Suphan Buri FC, Tapphrueang United, Samut Songkhram City, Assumption United, VRN Muang Non FC, Royal Thai Army FC, Hua Hin City, Royal People Football Club, and Phetchaburi PBR U FC. Southern Zone (10 teams) includes Nakhon Si United, FC Yala, Samui United, PSU Surat Thani City, Muang Trang United, Phuket Andaman FC, Chumphon United, Ranong United, Nara FC, and Yala City. The competition format divides into zone rounds to identify the top two teams from each zone, earning 12 teams the right to compete in the Champions League round, which splits into two groups of six teams playing four matches each (two home, two away) without facing teams from their own zone. The top two teams from each Champions League group advance to semi-finals, with the winner earning a championship match while the runner-up competes for third place. The champion and second and third-place finishers from the Champions League earn promotion to Thai League 2 the following season. The board also voted to suspend membership of Ban Khai United and Trat FC, with a recommendation for expulsion to the general assembly. For the U-21 Youngster League (PEA Youngster League) in 2026-27, 16 clubs registered to participate, including defending champion True Bangkok United.