DHL Express and Manchester United Transform Rural Thailand with Football Dreams

Bringing the Theatre of Dreams to Mae Suek, Thailand

On March 25, 2026, a remarkable initiative unfolded in Mae Suek, one of the most geographically isolated communities in the world, as DHL Express partnered with Manchester United to fulfill a dream for local football fans. This collaboration aimed at providing the community with a state-of-the-art all-weather football pitch as part of the 'Delivering Dreams' campaign.

The Unveiling of a Dream

event, attended by Manchester United legend Patrice Evra, marked the inauguration of the football field, where Evra led the first training session with local children. This memorable day showcased not just a new sports facility, but also the hopes and dreams of over 85% of the local population who passionately support Manchester United.

In the heart of Mae Suek, the pitch symbolizes more than just a place to play football; it is a beacon of inspiration for young athletes in the region. Currently, more than 1,000 children will have access to this facility year-round, overcoming the geographical and climatic challenges that have historically limited their opportunities for sports.

Community Impact

Mae Suek is located approximately 140 kilometers from Chiang Mai, the nearest major city, and getting to the nearest operational football field takes about five hours round trip. The town comprises 11 villages with a population of 11,577, where the love for football runs deep, especially for Manchester United. Until now, the community had been deprived of safe and adequate sports facilities due to severe weather conditions that often rendered local pitches unusable.

Through this project, DHL Express not only improved the local infrastructure but also provided an opportunity for children to engage in sports safely. The high-quality FIFA-grade 4G pitch was constructed to international standards, similar to the facilities at Manchester United's Carrington training center. This will allow for regional tournaments and scouting sessions for aspiring players aiming to join the Chiang Mai FC Academy.

Voices from the Field

Patrice Evra expressed his joy at the initiative, stating, “Seeing the smiles on the children’s faces when they played on this beautiful pitch was unforgettable. I never had the luxury of playing on such grounds when I was their age. This campaign is truly fantastic.”

Additionally, Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes sent an inspiring video message to the community and generously donated team jerseys to local supporters. The heartfelt connection between the players and the local fans was palpable, exemplifying the team spirit that transcends geographical barriers.

The founder of Jericho Farm, where the pitch is located, shared his excitement, highlighting the privilege of hosting the first football field in the area. His enthusiasm reflected the community’s long-standing desire to engage in their beloved sport more readily.

Logistics of the Dream

To bring this project to fruition, five trucks traveled over 800 kilometers from Bangkok to the site, a testament to DHL Express's logistics capabilities. The challenging terrain required extensive land preparation before laying down the pitch, underscoring the commitment to making this dream a reality.

Comments from Manchester United players like Mason Mount captured the essence of the experience: “It’s magical for kids in remote areas to have access to such a facility. Everyone deserves to experience the joy that football brings.”

A Continuing Legacy

Elliott Santon, Head of Global Sponsorships at DHL Express, encapsulated the mission, stating, “We are proud to collaborate in giving Mae Suek access to a professional football pitch. It’s incredibly rewarding to witness the community's passion for sports and understand how this facility will benefit generations to come.”

The 'Delivering Dreams' campaign epitomizes DHL Express’s commitment to enhancing lives and connecting communities through the power of football. As Mae Suek embraces its new football pitch, the spirit of the Red Devils will undeniably inspire the young and hopeful athletes of tomorrow.

This project not only revives a love for the game among children but also underscores the profound impact that sports can have on building communities, fostering dreams, and creating lasting bonds that transcend borders and cultures.