Lisbon: The European continent witnessed a landmark event in Portugal as the number of Muay Thai students reached over 600, marking the highest attendance for such an event in Europe. The Ambassador to Lisbon is set to continue integrating Muay Thai with tourism, organizing Thai cultural activities in Portugal. The Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) plans to send authentic Muay Thai instructors for future events. Saenchai expressed his surprise at the widespread popularity of Muay Thai in Portugal, noting its growing prominence alongside football.
According to Thai News Agency, the SAT Boxing Commission organized activities under the "Muay Thai Master Class 2025" project in Lisbon, Portugal, from September 19-20, 2025. This event marks the ninth out of ten countries where the project aims to promote Muay Thai.
On September 20th, the "Muay Thai Master Class 2025" inauguration took place at Club Deportivo Marista de Carcaveros. The ceremony was officiated by Mrs. Kanokwan Phengsuwan, Ambassador to Lisbon, alongside notable figures such as Mr. Preecha Lalun from the SAT and Nuno Filipe Ferreira Alves, the Mayor of Carcaveros. Carros Ramjanali from the World Kickboxing Federation (WAKO) also attended.
The event commenced with a traditional Wai Khru Muay Thai ceremony performed by renowned champions Saenchai P.K. Saenchai Muay Thai Gym, Petchpanomrung Kiatmuu 9, and Namsaknoi Yuttakarnkamthorn, followed by a demonstration of "Muay Thai Boran."
Additionally, the SAT awarded the Standard Muaythai Gym (SMG) certification to ten boxing camps in Portugal, including Fight Club Estoril and Sporting Club Braga. A special Muay Thai class was conducted for over 600 participants, featuring techniques and insights from Saenchai and his peers.
Ms. Kanokwan Pengsuwan expressed her joy at hosting the Muay Thai Master Class in Portugal, highlighting existing Thai cultural activities. She emphasized the potential for Muay Thai to be integrated into sports tourism, given Portugal's appeal as a tourist destination.
Mr. Preecha Lalun shared his satisfaction with the event's success, noting the surpassing of the initial target of 300 participants. He confirmed SAT's commitment to supporting future activities in Portugal and encouraging Portuguese participants to further their Muay Thai skills in Thailand.
Saenchai P.K. Saenchai Muay Thai Gym commented on the growing popularity of Muay Thai in Europe and its recognition in Portugal, a country known for its football. He expressed his delight in teaching and interacting with Portuguese fans.
The Muay Thai Master Class 2025 project, which has already visited multiple countries, is set to conclude in Australia, further promoting Muay Thai's global reach.