Now what?
The Bangkok Futsal Arena’s problems are far from over. This time the flooring materials set to arrive from China were not cleared by customs, forcing the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) to order a new batch from Malaysia, Taiwan and Italy.
Deputy Bangkok governor Thirachon Manomaipibul said yesterday that the new flooring materials are expected to arrive in time to have the 12,000 seater arena ready for a test run today, according to the Bangkok Post.
The Futsal World Cup kicks off this Thursday, Nov. 1 and runs until Nov 18. Countless delays have forced FIFA officials to make use of the Hua Mak Indoor Stadium for the opening ceremonies.
A photo on the Futsal World Cup’s Facebook page shows the arena with match flooring – it must be the replacement batch, we presume?
Like Bangkok governor Sukhumbhand Paribatra, Mr Thirachon is confident that the Nong Chok arena will be finished and ready to host the quarterfinal round of matches scheduled for November 14.
FIFA has not yet decideded whether to use the Bangkok Futsal Arena as the main venue for the Futsal World Cup 2012 in light of the flooring problems, the Bangkok Post reported today.
The first and second round matches were also moved to Nimibutr Gymnasium at the National Stadium, and Nakhon Ratchasima’s Chatchai Hall.
These two other venues have been repaired and refurbished and area ready to be handed over to FIFA officials.
