A Thai police officer and Hua Hin club player, Songkran Puangnoi, received a severe punishment after assaulting the referee and another player during a Thai Third Division match. The incident shocked the football community and prompted a strong disciplinary response from the Football Association of Thailand (FAT).
Violent Incident on the Football Pitch
On March 2nd, the Hua Hin vs. Rajpracha match in the Thai Third Division saw a tragic turn of events. Late in the first half, with Rajpracha leading 3-0, a Rajpracha player sustained an injury. The referee halted the game to allow medical personnel to attend to the player.
Instead of maintaining composure, Songkran Puangnoi reacted impulsively. Alleging that the opposing player was intentionally time-wasting, he kicked the injured player. The referee immediately issued a red card to Puangnoi.
This aggressive act apparently fueled the 33-year-old’s anger further. He then grabbed the referee by the collar and punched him in the face, severely injuring Srithai Bookok, who required hospitalization. Puangnoi’s violent behavior sparked outrage, especially considering his status as a police officer.
FAT Imposes Heavy Penalties
Following the incident, Hua Hin swiftly terminated Songkran Puangnoi’s contract. FAT President Madam Pang ordered an immediate investigation and imposed severe penalties on Puangnoi.
FAT’s sanctions covered five distinct offenses:
- Assaulting an opponent: 4-match ban, 15,000 baht fine, and medical expenses for the injured player.
- Assaulting the referee: 8-match ban, 30,000 baht fine, and medical expenses.
- Intentionally causing violence on the pitch: 2-match ban, 7,500 baht fine.
- Threatening the referee: 3-match ban, 15,000 baht fine.
- Receiving a red card for serious foul play: 3-match ban, 10,000 baht fine.
In total, Songkran Puangnoi faced a 20-match ban from Thai leagues and a 5-year ban from FIFA regulations. He was also fined 77,500 baht (approximately $2,000).
FAT Statement
Madam Pang emphasized that this punishment serves as a strong deterrent against future violent acts, aiming to enhance professionalism and safety in Thai football. Leading Thai newspaper, Siam Sport, reported that this penalty is one of the harshest in Thai football history, reflecting FAT’s commitment to maintaining the sport’s professionalism and safety.
