𝐁𝐡𝐮𝐭𝐚𝐧 𝐅𝐨𝐨𝐭𝐛𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐅𝐞𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐌𝐚𝐫𝐤𝐬 𝟐𝟓 𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬, 𝐏𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐝𝐞

…𝒇𝒐𝒐𝒕𝒃𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒍𝒆𝒈𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒔, 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒕𝒉 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒇𝒂𝒏𝒔 𝒈𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒐 𝒎𝒂𝒓𝒌 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒏𝒕𝒓𝒚’𝒔 𝒇𝒐𝒐𝒕𝒃𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒋𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒏𝒆𝒚 𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒄𝒆 2000

By Tashi Tshewang

Bhutan commemorated 25 years of its FIFA membership with a two-day celebration organised by the Bhutan Football Federation (BFF), beginning with a Legends Match at Changlimithang Stadium on July 31, followed by a Football Carnival and Gala Night on August 1. The event brought together football legends, young players, fans and officials to reflect on the country’s football journey since joining FIFA in 2000.

The celebration began with the Legends Match, featuring former national players returning to the pitch in front of enthusiastic spectators. The event served as an opportunity to reflect on earlier periods of Bhutanese football and engage with a new generation of players and fans. Changlimithang Stadium witnessed a high turnout as supporters gathered to watch the former players compete.

The following day, August 1, the celebrations continued with a Football Carnival at the stadium, where children, students and families participated in football activities and games. They also interacted with players and officials, reinforcing the importance of grassroots development in Bhutanese football.

Phuntsho Wangdi, Operations Director of the BFF, said, “To witness how far Bhutan has come in 25 years of FIFA membership is truly inspiring. From humble beginnings playing on rugged terrains and muddy pitches to building a national football culture with structured leagues, artificial turfs, and thriving national teams, this journey is a testament to the passion, resilience, and the unifying power of sport.”

He added that the Legends Match was not just a commemoration of the journey so far but also a platform to motivate young talents across the country. “By bringing together some of the most iconic figures in Bhutanese football on one stage, we hope to spark ambition and belief among young talents across the country. Despite the logistical and organisational challenges, seeing the event come together so successfully is a proud moment for all of us involved.

This celebration reflects the collective effort and love for the game shared by everyone who believes in the growth of football in Bhutan. And given the overwhelming response, we are optimistic about organising similar legacy matches in the future, not only to honour our past, but to strengthen the bonds within our football community.”

Mindu Dorji, who has served with the Bhutan Football Federation for 29 years, expressed his appreciation to the federation for organising the event. “I would like to thank the Bhutan Football Federation for giving us this opportunity. When we look back at how things were during our time and compare it to now, there’s a massive difference in the quality of play, the infrastructure, the crowd, and the overall development of football in Bhutan.”

For many of the players who participated in the Legends Match, the event provided a space to reconnect with old teammates and reflect on the progress Bhutanese football has made. According to Mindu Dorji, the event was a moment of reflection, where the contributions of former players were acknowledged alongside the aspirations of the younger generation. “For us, it’s a beautiful chance to reconnect with old teammates, relive memories, and feel proud of the progress. Today, at this event, you can see it all, the legacy of the past and the energy of the future coming together on one pitch.”

Lt. Col. Wangay, a former national team player who played during the early years of Bhutan’s FIFA journey, shared his experiences. “Football has truly come a long way in Bhutan. When I started playing for the national team back in 1998, facilities were almost non-existent. We had dusty, uneven grounds, mostly just Changlimithang, and maybe one or two more used by the armed forces. Equipment was limited, there were no proper coaches, and yet, the love for the game was strong even then.”

He described the Legends Match as a memorable occasion for former players. “What made it even more special was the Legend Match. The crowd wasn’t huge, maybe because many didn’t know it was happening, but those who were there, especially the young hostel students, got to watch and learn from the players who once carried the national jersey. It reminded us all why we started, and how far we have come.”

The celebrations concluded with a Gala Dinner and Awards Night at Terma Linca Resort. The evening featured cultural performances, speeches, and a screening of the BFF’s 25-year journey. During the award ceremony, players, coaches, clubs, and long-serving staff were recognised for their contributions to Bhutanese football.

One of the award recipients, Dechen Choki, thanked the federation for the recognition. “Today, I would like to thank the Bhutan Football Federation for this meaningful award. It is not just a personal recognition, but a reflection of the journey I have shared with countless young players, coaches, and colleagues who have walked alongside me in the development of football in Bhutan.”

With more than 15 years of experience with the federation, Dechen Choki has played a central role in shaping youth development and promoting women’s participation in the sport. She began her career as a coach for the Under-14 national team and later served as a focal person for grassroots programs. In her current position as a regional manager, she continues to oversee football initiatives across different communities.

Throughout her career, she has worked as a coach, administrator, mentor and advocate for football’s role in building life skills among youth. Her involvement has contributed to the development of youth systems, women’s football, and stronger outreach for the sport. “Football has given me more than I ever expected. It has taught me resilience, teamwork, leadership, and above all, the joy of giving back to the community. This award is a reminder that every effort, every training session, and every challenge we overcome together as a football family truly matters. I am humbled and inspired to continue giving my best for the game and for the future of Bhutanese football,” she said.

Since becoming a member of FIFA in 2000, Bhutan has worked to strengthen its football infrastructure, develop youth-level competitions, and provide opportunities for international exposure. According to the BFF, this anniversary celebration was not only a look back at achievements, but also a step forward in nurturing the next phase of football development in the country. The involvement of players across generations and the participation of communities in the events reflected a growing interest in football as a sport with national significance.

The Legends Match, Carnival and Gala Night collectively served as a reminder of how far Bhutanese football has come, and the role that collaboration, perseverance, and community engagement have played in its development over the past 25 years.