"World Sepak Takraw Federation" has made a decision on the referee controversy that caused Thailand to walk out and be penalized with a forfeit in the Sepak Takraw World Championship.
On 24 May 2026, the International Sepak Takraw Federation (ISTAF) issued a statement regarding the incident where the Thai national sepak takraw team protested against Muhammad Radi, a Singaporean referee, leading them to refuse to continue the match and be penalized with a loss in the ISTAF Sepaktakraw World Cup 2026 men's team final held in Malaysia last night.
The two-time defending champions Thailand faced host nation Malaysia, with the teams tied at 1-1. In the third set, while Thailand was leading 14-13, Muhammad Radi awarded a point to Malaysia during a play where Thailand struck the ball down, ruling that Thailand had stepped on the line, tying the score at 14-14.
Thailand then protested, refusing to continue the match unless the decision was overturned. Ultimately, the referee and event organizers did not change the call, resulting in Thailand losing by forfeit due to the walkout, and Malaysia was declared the champion.
ISTAF recently stated, "At the critical moment in the third Regu match, the referee called a center line violation against the Thai player in accordance with ISTAF rules. After the decision, the Thai team requested a review challenge."
"However, the referee informed the team that center line violations are not subject to the current challenge system, despite extensive explanation and guidance from the event officials."
"The Thai team then refused to continue playing and did not return to the court within the time allowed by ISTAF rules and competition regulations. Therefore, the referee awarded the match to Malaysia."
"ISTAF wishes to emphasize that all referees are entrusted to perform their duties professionally, fairly, and independently according to the rules of the game. If any team disagrees with a decision during a match, the appropriate course under regulations is to file an official protest, not to refuse to continue playing."
"Because this matter involves competition regulations and the conduct of officials and players during an international final, the case has been referred to the relevant disciplinary authorities for further investigation."
"ISTAF remains committed to protecting the integrity of the sport, the professionalism of officiating, and the spirit of fair play in all competitions sanctioned by ISTAF."
