The World is Round, Part 4: Football in Bhutan
Nestled between China and India, the small Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, ancient monasteries, and unique philosophy of Gross National Happiness. But beyond its cultural and spiritual identity, football has found a home in Bhutan—even at some of the highest altitudes in the world.
Despite its small population and limited resources, Bhutan has developed a distinct football culture that is gaining recognition beyond its borders.
The Beginnings of Football in Bhutan
Football was introduced to Bhutan in the mid-20th century, initially as a leisure activity for urban residents. However, due to a lack of infrastructure and professional structures, the sport remained largely unorganized for many years.
This changed with the establishment of the Bhutan Football Federation (BFF) in 1983. The BFF played a key role in:
✔ Promoting football at the grassroots level
✔ Organizing leagues and competitions
✔ Launching youth programs to inspire future generations
As a result, football clubs began emerging, and Bhutan slowly started shaping its own football identity.
A Stadium in the Clouds
The Changlimithang Stadium, located in the capital Thimphu, is Bhutan’s national stadium. Sitting at an altitude of 2,300 meters (7,500 feet), the thin air poses a serious challenge for visiting teams.
- Built-in the 1970s, the stadium serves multiple sports.
- Capacity of 15,000 spectators.
- Few other stadiums in the country meet international standards.
Despite its aging facilities, Changlimithang remains the heart of Bhutanese football.
Bhutan’s National Team: The Struggle for Recognition
Bhutan’s national team has historically been one of the lowest-ranked teams in the world. Since its formation in 1983, the team has struggled to:
❌ Qualify for the Asian Cup or World Cup.
❌ Compete against stronger Asian nations due to limited resources and training opportunities.
A rare highlight came in 2017, when Bhutan advanced past the first round of World Cup qualification for the first time—though they were eliminated in the next stage.
However, despite the disadvantages, Bhutanese players continue to demonstrate remarkable dedication and passion for the sport.
Bhutan Premier League: A Young League with Big Dreams
Bhutan’s top domestic league, the Bhutan Premier League, was only established in 2012. The most successful club is Paro FC, based in the small town of Paro.
- The league consists of 10 teams.
- Promotion is determined through a qualification tournament.
- From 2022 to 2023, German coach Torsten Spittler served as Paro FC’s technical director.
Though still in its infancy, the league provides a vital platform for Bhutanese players to develop and gain exposure.
The Future of Football in Bhutan
Despite its challenges, football in Bhutan continues to grow. With increasing government support and international partnerships, efforts are being made to:
✔ Improve infrastructure
✔ Develop youth academies
✔ Enhance coaching education
In Bhutan, football is about more than just winning or scoring goals. It aligns with the nation’s philosophy of happiness and joy, making the sport a true reflection of Bhutanese values.
With the right investment and dedication, Bhutanese football could soon take its next big step forward.
