Muangthong United, famously known as The Kirins, are preparing for a major transition as their long-standing home, Thunder Dome Stadium, is set to be demolished within the next five years.
The venue, which has hosted the club for nearly two decades, will be redeveloped into a concert hall and entertainment complex.
According to Brand Inside, Paul Kanjanapas, CEO of Impact Exhibition Management Co., revealed initial plans that Thunder Dome will be torn down once its lease agreement with the Sports Authority of Thailand expires in 2029. Crucially, the new development will not include a football stadium.
Thunder Dome Stadium was originally built in 1998 to host rugby matches during the 13th Asian Games in Bangkok. Nearly a decade later, in 2007, Muangthong United adopted the stadium as their home when they first competed in Thailand’s Division 2. Over the years, the club expanded the ground with stands on all four sides, reaching a capacity of 12,000 seats today.
The stadium has since become synonymous with Muangthong United’s rise to prominence in Thai football, serving as the backdrop for their journey from lower-division contenders to Thai League champions.
With the countdown to 2029 underway, Muangthong United must now explore alternative venues or invest in building a new stadium of their own. The decision will be crucial, not only for the club’s logistics but also for maintaining their identity and connection with fans.
The impending demolition of Thunder Dome underscores the growing challenge for Thai clubs to balance tradition with modern development, as the country’s sporting infrastructure continues to evolve alongside entertainment-driven commercial priorities.
Credit Photo : MTUTD
