DHL Express and Manchester United Bring Football to Isolated Thai Community

Bringing Football Dreams to Mae Suek, Thailand

In a heartwarming initiative, DHL Express has teamed up with Manchester United to provide a state-of-the-art, all-weather football pitch to Mae Suek, one of the most remote communities in Thailand. Known as the "Delivering Dreams" campaign, this remarkable project aims to support the strong passion for football among local residents, many of whom are devoted fans of the famed English club.

A Community United by Football

Nestled about 140 kilometers from the nearest significant urban area of Chiang Mai, Mae Suek is home to 11 villages and around 11,577 residents. Life in this isolated region is often challenging, made even harder by extreme weather conditions that frequently render local fields unplayable. Despite these challenges, over 85% of the community's population ardently supports Manchester United, dreaming of the day they could play on a pitch that mirrors the iconic club's standards.

In a moment reminiscent of what the club describes as the "Theatre of Dreams," ex-Manchester United star Patrice Evra was on site to inaugurate the new facility. Evra ran the first training session on the new turf, making unforgettable memories with local children who had long envisioned playing football on a pitch that matched their aspirations.

Quality Infrastructure for Future Generations

The newly installed pitch features premium FIFA-grade 4G turf, designed to withstand the region's tropical climate, thus ensuring that children and community members can enjoy football year-round. This significant development provides access to modern training facilities for over 1,000 students from two local schools and neighboring villages, allowing them to practice their skills regardless of weather conditions.

According to Evra, "When I saw the smiles on the kids' faces as they played on this beautiful football pitch for the first time, it was unforgettable. Reliving my own childhood memories, I appreciate how special this is for them."

Mr. V, the property owner of Jericho Farm, the pitch's location, expressed his excitement: "This is the first-ever year-round football pitch for our community. We are all huge Manchester United fans, and now we can finally play the sport we love so much. Seeing children have fun here brings me joy."

Inspiring Messages from the Club

Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes provided words of encouragement through a heartfelt video message sent to the community. He also contributed jerseys to the eager fans, further strengthening the club's bond with the people of Mae Suek. Many local residents, including grassroots referee Mr. Som Chai and his son, Man Yoo, who was named after the team, shared their experiences of how this project could unite and energize their community.

Mason Mount, another player, emphasized the significance of this project: "It's magical for the kids to see a pitch of such high quality. Everyone deserves the chance to play on a great surface. It’s a remarkable journey we’ve all experienced, and I’m thrilled for the children who will benefit from this opportunity."

A Passion for Connection

Elliott Santon, Head of Global Sponsorships at DHL Express, proudly stated, "This project embodies our mission to connect people and improve lives. With our longstanding partnership with Manchester United, we are honored to create a professional-grade facility for the people of Mae Suek. Knowing their passion for football, this fulfilled dream will positively impact many generations ahead."

By establishing this extraordinary football pitch in Mae Suek, DHL Express and Manchester United are helping turn dreams into reality for the local fans. Now, they can both play and live their passion for football within their own community, fostering a sense of unity and joy that aligns perfectly with the essence of sportsmanship.