The History of Thai League 1 Champions – The Thai League 1 is the top tier of professional football in Thailand, and its champions have been crowned since the league’s inception in 1996. Over the past two decades, many teams have risen to claim the title of Thai League 1 Champions. This article will explore the history of these champions, from their first season in 1996 to present day. From crowning regional giants to upstart teams that defied the odds, this is a look at the teams that have ruled Thai football over the past two decades.
Introduction History of Champions
The Thai League 1 was founded in 1996, with 12 teams entering the inaugural season. The first ever champions were BEC Tero Sasana, a team based out of Bangkok. Other notable teams to participate in the first season included Krung Thai Bank and Satri Angthong.
The next season saw a new champion crowned as Air Force United emerged victorious. This set a trend for the league, with champions changing frequently due to competitive balance and varying levels of investment. PTT Rayong were crowned champions in 1998, followed by Chonburi in 1999.
The 2000’s saw a more consistent champion as Muang Thong United reigned supreme for three consecutive years from 2006-2008. In 2009, Buriram United took over and held onto the championship for four straight years, becoming the first team to do so since Muang Thong United.
Bangkok Glass lifted the trophy in 2013, followed by Buriram United again in 2014. The subsequent three seasons saw Bangkok United crowned champions, with Ratchaburi Mitr Phol claiming back-to-back titles in 2018 and 2019. The 2020 season has seen Chiangra i United crowned as the newest champions.
The Inception of Thai League 1
The Thai League 1 was founded in 1996 with the intention of creating a professional football league in Thailand. The league started with 12 teams and rapidly expanded over the following years, reaching 18 teams by the 2003 season. In 2007, the league restructured to its current 16 team format.
The First Champions of Thai League 1
The first ever champions of the Thai League 1 were BEC Tero Sasana. Founded in 1995, they managed to claim the title in their inaugural season. They were also the first team to win back-to-back titles, doing so in 1997 and 1998. Other notable teams from this period include Krung Thai Bank and Satri Angthong.
Recent Champions of Thai League 1
The past decade has seen a number of teams rise to claim the Thai League 1 title. Muang Thong United were dominant between 2006-2008, and Buriram United followed by winning four consecutive titles from 2009-2013. Bangkok Glass and Bangkok United have also been successful in recent years, with Chiangrai United claiming the title in 2020.
The Golden Era of Thai League 1 Champions
The past two decades of Thai League 1 have seen a number of teams rise to become champions. Muang Thong United, Buriram United and Bangkok Glass were all dominant forces in the league, while upstart teams like Chiangrai United have also claimed the title more recently. This era of Thai football has been marked by competitive balance and exciting play, making it an exciting time for fans of the sport.
Conclusion: History of Thai League 1 Champions
The Thai League 1 has been around for over two decades and the champions of this league have changed many times. From regional giants to upstart teams who defied the odds, there have been a number of teams that have dominated Thai football over the years. The 2020 season saw Chiangrai United crowned as the newest champions, but who knows which team will take home the title next time?
