On 14 February 2026, H.E. Mrs. Kanchana Patarachoke, Ambassador of Thailand to Belgium, together with Embassy and Team Thailand officials, attended the Open Belgian Youth Muaythai Championship at Sporthal ‘t Stadspark in Turnhout, upon the invitation by Mr. Patrick Van Acker, Chairman of the Flemish Kickboxing and Muaythai Organization (VKBMO). The event was organised by VKBMO, a sports federation officially acknowledged by Sport Vlaanderen.

 

This annual Open Youth Muaythai Championship brought together over 400 participating young Muaythai fighters aged 10–17 from Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany and France as well as 20 referees following international rules adapted for young athletes. Muaythai is more than sports. It instils Thai culture, traditional values of respect for trainers and opponents, cultural etiquette, and self-discipline.

 

On this occasion, the Ambassador discussed with VKBMO ways to further promote Muaythai and youth development through sports. The Thai government actively continues to support these efforts. It is heartening to see Muaythai has become more popular abroad. Belgium is now home to 250 Muaythai gyms across the country with over 20,000 members. Both large and small gyms play an important role in promoting Muaythai in Belgium.