Thailand’s Queen appointed honorary president of Muaythai Association

Farzad Youshanlou
November 6, 2026

Queen Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshana has been appointed Honorary President of the Muaythai Association of Thailand Under Royal Patronage (MTAT), the International Federation of Muaythai Associations has announced.

IFMA described the appointment as an important occasion for Muaythai, highlighting its significance for Thailand’s cultural and sporting heritage.

The MTAT is a founding member of IFMA and the federation recognised by the organisation as representing Thailand at national level. It represents the Kingdom of Thailand within IFMA’s international structure and is responsible for the participation of Thai national teams in international competitions sanctioned by the federation.

Recognised by the International Olympic Committee and a signatory to the World Anti-Doping Code, IFMA works with the MTAT and the World Muaythai Council. Their cooperation focuses on good governance, sporting integrity, athlete welfare and the protection of Muaythai’s cultural traditions.

In its statement, IFMA also highlighted Queen Suthida’s role in promoting clean sport. The Queen serves as the World Anti-Doping Agency’s Global Ambassador for Clean Sport. According to IFMA, this role underlines the importance of integrity, fair competition and the protection of athletes.

The international federation, which has 157 national federations, also stressed the importance of preserving Muaythai’s Thai roots and cultural identity as the sport continues to expand internationally. It said global development must go hand in hand with protecting the traditions and cultural heritage of Muaythai.

IFMA said it would continue working with the MTAT and WMC on education, athlete safeguarding, clean sport and sustainable development. The federation also identified the creation of a safe, inclusive and respectful sporting environment for future generations of athletes as one of its objectives.

Concluding its statement, IFMA extended its respect and gratitude to Queen Suthida on behalf of its 157 national federations and the worldwide Muaythai community. It also wished the Queen lasting good health, happiness and a long and glorious reign.