100 young players train with FIFA legend Gilberto Silva and Thai national stars to pursue their professional dreams
As the FIFA World Cup(TM) Trophy Tour by Coca-Cola continues its historic stop in Bangkok, Coca-Cola has partnered with the Football Association of Thailand (FAT) to host an exclusive football clinic at Chulalongkorn University Stadium, providing a world-class training ground for the next generation of Thai football talent.
The clinic gave 100 young aspiring footballers the extraordinary opportunity to train alongside FIFA World Cup(TM) legend Gilberto Silva, a key member of Brazil's iconic 2002 World Cup-winning team, and stars from the Thai National Team. The group included 20 standout players from the HaadThip Youth Cup from Southern Thailand, and 80 talented youths from Buriram United, Port F.C. and Muangthong United, supported by ThaiNamthip, and youth teams from Chulalongkorn University.
Bringing World-Class Football Experience to Thai Youth.
The session focused on professional-level fundamentals, including technical ball control, tactical strategies and the championship mentality required to compete on the football stage.
"In Thailand, Coca-Cola has a long-standing commitment to supporting grassroots sports and youth development," said Han Thwe Phyo, Senior Director, Marketing for Coca-Cola in Thailand and Laos. "By bringing the original FIFA World Cup Trophy to Thailand and organizing this training session with world-class footballers, we're not just showcasing the original Trophy, we're igniting dreams and providing tangible pathways for young Thai players to pursue professional football careers."
Thai National Team Coach Upskills Youth Footballers
Kawin Thamsatchanan, the legendary Thai National Team goalkeeper who now coaches the next generation, worked alongside Gilberto Silva to mentor the participants: "Coaching these 100 talented young Thai players today alongside a FIFA World Cup legend like Gilberto Silva has been an extraordinary experiencenot just for them, but for all of us. Watching them absorb world-class techniques and the mentality that defines a champion is invaluable," said Kawin. "These young players possess remarkable talent and hunger to succeed. Through hands-on training sessions like this, we are building a stronger foundation for the future of Thai football. I'm proud to work with Coca-Cola and the Football Association of Thailand to invest in our youth, creating opportunities that will elevate the next generation of Thai national team players."
Empowering Thai Youth Through Strategic Partnership
Anthony Hudson, Head Coach of the Thailand Men's National Football Team, said: "The Football Association of Thailand is grateful to Coca-Cola for bringing this extraordinary opportunity to our young players. Thai youth footballers have high potential and strong determination. With professional training and mentorship, they will be better equipped to pursue their dreams. Today's football clinic represents a world-class experience that can truly change the trajectory of a young athlete's career. Having more than 100 talented young Thai players train with FIFA World Cup legend Gilberto Silva and our national team footballers create an invaluable learning environment that will inspire them for years to come."
A Celebration of Football Throughout 2026
The football clinic is one of several high-impact activities Coca-Cola has planned for 2026. As the countdown to the FIFA World Cup 2026(TM) begins, Coca-Cola remains committed to celebrating the "beautiful game" and supporting the development of Thai football talent at every level.