On May 29, 2026, Professor Dr. Bang-orn Benjathikul, President of Bangkok Thonburi University (BTU), presided over the opening ceremony of the “Chang U-Champion Cup 2026” university football tournament. This year marks the 18th edition of the tournament and the 4th year it has been held. The ceremony was attended by executives from 32 member institutions, executives from Thai Beverage Public Company Limited (the main sponsor), distinguished guests, and members of the organizing committee from all 32 institutions, at the Bangkok Thonburi University football field.
The Chang U-Champion Cup 2026 university football tournament, organized by the organizing committee in collaboration with Thai Beverage Public Company Limited, aims to encourage Thai university students to recognize the importance of sports, the beneficial use of leisure time, and to help develop university football players to a national level.
In addition, the football tournament also helps to generate interest in football among students and those interested in attending the matches. And also cheer on the teams from various educational institutions.
The Chang U-Champion Cup 2026 university football competition features participation from both public and private educational institutions from all regions of the country. This year's competition is held under the campaign "Chang's Dream to Professional Football," aiming to inspire participation in football and serve as a bridge to further opportunities for becoming professional footballers.
This year, the winning team will receive a trophy and the opportunity to experience world-class football in England with Leicester City Football Club. Special awards will also be given to the best player, top scorer, and the player with the best sportsmanship, who will receive a plaque and special prizes from sponsors.
The format of the "Chang U-Champion Cup 2026" football competition is as follows: The first round is divided into 8 groups, with 4 teams in each group, playing a round-robin format where each pair of teams plays once. The matches will take place between May 29th and June 5th, 2026. The second round – the final round – will bring together the top 2 teams from each of the 8 groups to compete in a knockout format until the final. The competition will take place from June 8-18, 2026.
For the results of the opening match of the “Chang U-Champion Cup 2026” football tournament, Bangkok Thonburi University defeated Silpakorn University 1-0.