Former Thai Striker Backs PM Youth Cup for Provincial Talent
Thai football legend Warawut "Yong" Srimaka has endorsed the Prime Minister's Youth Cup, a nationwide tournament for U14, U16 and U18 boys, saying it creates vital pathways for provincial players who previously had to move to Bangkok to be scouted. Registration runs until October 31, 2026, with matches progressing from district to national level.
Former legendary striker Warawut "Yong" Srimaka says the Prime Minister's Youth Cup helps children access high-level football more easily. The tournament is a crucial opportunity for kids from every region, especially those in provinces where opportunities were previously limited compared to the past. In earlier times, becoming a professional footballer often meant leaving everything behind for Bangkok — a path Yong himself took as one of Thailand's iconic strikers. He views this as a vital chance for youth.
"This competition opens doors for provincial teams because qualifying runs nationwide. In my view it's all benefit. Before, it was extremely hard for a provincial kid to turn pro — you had to abandon your hometown for the capital. Now scouts come watch, and I believe we'll uncover good players who might otherwise be missed. It expands our football resources, and I'm confident many kids are ready to step up."
"This tournament can grow because it's a flagship event. With more matches — from district to provincial to regional to national levels — one request: if future budgets allow, give the kids an appropriate number of games, because too few matches don't develop them."
"This is genuinely a youth development tournament. I believe it meets standards with real competitive matches, not just friendlies. Many kids want to experience this. For the future, I want to see this stage continue every year."
Registration is open today through October 31, 2026 via pmycfootball.in.th. Follow the PMYC U14, U16 and U18 boys' youth football competitions and cheer them on at FB: FAThailand and Thai Youth Football.
