Nualphan Lamsam, President of the Football Association of Thailand, has made history as the first woman ever appointed Chairperson of FIFA’s Development Committee for the 2025–2029 term. The appointment was officially confirmed by the FIFA Council on 7 October 2025, marking a landmark moment for both Thailand and global football governance.
The Development Committee is one of FIFA’s key standing committees, reporting directly to FIFA President Gianni Infantino and the FIFA Council. It plays a central role in shaping FIFA’s global football development strategy, which spans all 211 member associations. The committee is tasked with planning and recommending development initiatives, monitoring their execution, and evaluating the support provided to national football associations, regional confederations, and zonal bodies.
Nualphan’s appointment signals an important advancement for women’s representation in international football leadership. As Chairperson, she will oversee initiatives across multiple dimensions, including youth development, infrastructure, women’s football, and promoting gender equality in sport.
This marks the first time a Thai representative has been appointed to such a senior role within a FIFA standing committee, reflecting FIFA’s confidence in Thailand’s leadership and capacity to contribute to the sport’s global growth.
In addition, Lertsak Pattanachaikul, Executive Committee Member of the Football Association of Thailand, has been named by FIFA as a member of the Member Associations Committee. This committee is responsible for governance matters and strengthening relations among FIFA’s national associations worldwide.
The dual appointments are seen as a major step for Thailand’s international football standing and a significant moment for women’s leadership in global sports administration.
