Extract from a larger article posted on Bangkok Post, regarding the figure of Suwat Liptapanlop.


Give him a sporting chance

Mr Suwat's next major task will be to oversee the preparations for the 2012 Fifa Futsal World Cup to be held in Thailand from Nov 2-18 next year, with every match to be televised worldwide.

Six provinces across the country _ Nakhon Ratchasima, Suphan Buri, Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Songkhla, and Pattaya in Chon Buri _ will take turns hosting the event in their respective stadiums.

"This will be a good opportunity to use sports to promote the country plagued by conflicts which affect [investors'] confidence, investment and tourism," Mr Suwat said.

He said he had chosen the venues for the event in major cities in each region of the country to make it easy for people to go watch the games and to promote the local economy and tourism.

A team of Fifa officials recently came to inspect the infrastructure, preparedness, transport and other facilities, Mr Suwat said.

"Most importantly, it's about public participation. This is the first time Thailand has been awarded the right to host the event."

Mr Suwat said the cabinet had recently allocated a budget to build a new stadium at Nong Chok, which would serve as a commemorative venue for the hosting of the Futsal World Cup and, after the event, the stadium would also be used for other recreational purposes for Bangkok residents.

Mr Suwat said international futsal teams would be invited to compete in a promotional special event in Thailand in June. Many Thai VIPs would be asked to play in the friendly, he said.

"Prime Minister Abhisit [Vejjajiva] has promised to play as well," Mr Suwat said.


Posted by Luca Ranocchiari --> luca.ranocchiari@futsalplanet.com