On 6 October 2024, in a grand ceremony held in Bangkok, Her Majesty Queen Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshana of Thailand was officially named the International Ice Hockey Federation’s (IIHF) first Women’s Global Ambassador. This prestigious role highlights Her Majesty’s dedication to promoting sports and empowering female athletes, while aligning with Thailand’s commitment to non-discrimination, equality, and inclusion in sports.
In the days leading up to the event, Her Majesty joined Thailand’s national ice hockey team and the Chinese national team in a practice session in Bangkok. This practice preceded the first-ever Thailand-China Ice Hockey Friendly Match, which took place on 6 October at the Thailand International Ice Hockey Arena. The event also commemorated His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn’s 72nd birthday and the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. His Majesty the King presided over the match, which further emphasized the importance of this historic occasion.
The ceremony was attended by numerous VIPs, including Prime Minister of Thailand – Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Minister of Tourism and Sports – Sorawong Thienthong, Governor of the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) – Kongsak Yodmanee, and the Chinese Ambassador to Thailand – Han Zhiqiang. Stephan Fox, President of the Alliance of Independent Recognized Members of Sport (AIMS) and United Through Sports, was also present, underscoring the global significance of the event.
Khunying Patama Leeswadtrakul, a distinguished member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), welcomed Her Majesty during the practice session and celebrations. Her Majesty’s involvement, alongside the growth of the ice hockey scene in Thailand, aligns with Thailand’s vision to create inclusive environments in sports, ensuring opportunities for all athletes regardless of gender, background, or nationality.
IIHF President, Luc Tardif expressed his admiration for Her Majesty’s role: “It is with great honor that Her Majesty Queen Suthida has accepted the position of IIHF Women’s Global Ambassador. Her passion for the sport will serve as an inspiration to female athletes not only in Asia but around the world.”
As the IIHF Women’s Global Ambassador, Her Majesty’s role is closely tied to Thailand’s broader vision of promoting non-discrimination, equality, and inclusion in sports. The country’s initiatives are focused on empowering women and underrepresented groups, ensuring their full participation in sporting activities both locally and internationally. Under the leadership of the Ice Hockey Association of Thailand, the country has become a leader in Southeast Asia’s ice hockey development, participating in all IIHF World Championships across men’s, women’s, and junior divisions.
The 6 October ceremony, held alongside the Thailand-China friendly match, also celebrated the close collaboration between the Ice Hockey Associations of Thailand and China. With Her Majesty Queen Suthida’s support, the visibility and influence of female athletes in ice hockey are expected to grow significantly, furthering Thailand’s commitment to creating a sporting environment that upholds the principles of equality and inclusion.
