The Thai Football Association (FAT) faces a severe financial crisis following a ruling by the Central Intellectual Property and International Trade Court. The court ordered FAT to compensate Siam Sport Syndicate Public Company Limited for copyright infringement, totaling 360 million baht (approximately $9 million USD). This substantial debt jeopardizes FAT and negatively impacts the future of Thai football.
The Cause of the Dispute:
The issue stems from a 2017 contract dispute over the television broadcasting rights to the Thai League. At the time, Somyot Poompanmoung chaired FAT. The agreement granted Siam Sport 95% of the profit from the rights, while FAT retained 5%. However, FAT unilaterally terminated the contract, triggering Siam Sport’s lawsuit.
Madam Pang and FAT’s Response:
Current FAT president, Nualphan Lamsam (Madam Pang), faces immense pressure due to this massive debt. She maintains the debt is the responsibility of the previous administration and that FAT will pursue legal action against the former board to recoup the funds. However, she expressed anxieties and emotional distress regarding the financial strain.
The Thai Minister of Tourism and Sports’ Perspective:
The Thai Minister of Tourism and Sports, Sorawong Thienthong, declined to offer financial support to FAT, emphasizing FAT’s own responsibility for resolving the debt.
Consequences and Future Outlook:
FAT’s inability to secure funding to repay Siam Sport could lead to bankruptcy. This is unwelcome news for the Thai national team, particularly as they prepare for the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers, where they will face stiff competition from teams like Sri Lanka, Turkmenistan, and Chinese Taipei.
Questions Arising:
- Can FAT afford to repay the debt?
- How will this impact the Thai national team’s performance in upcoming tournaments?
- What measures should be taken to minimize the damage to FAT and Thai football?
Conclusion:
The court’s ruling has placed FAT in a precarious position. Managing this substantial debt will significantly influence the future development of Thai football. Swift and effective solutions are necessary for FAT to overcome this challenge.
References:
- Original article on Dân Trí
- [Add more relevant references if available]
- Image description: Picture of Madam Pang, President of the Thai Football Association (FAT).
- Image description: Picture of Somyot Poompanmoung, former President of the Thai Football Association (FAT).
