The first Thai national team player has stepped forward to assist Chanathip in paying the fine for setting off fireworks celebrating qualification for the 2027 Asian Cup.
On 3 Apr 2026 GMT+7, following the incident where Chanathip Songkrasin, captain and midfielder of the Thai national team, set off fireworks after defeating Turkmenistan 2-1, Thailand secured a spot in the final round of the 2027 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia, achieving their goal.
During the victory lap thanking fans in Zone S, a group of supporters handed Chanathip fireworks to ignite, as per his promise that if they won, he would light them himself, requesting fans not to light any during the match. After the win, 'Jay' fulfilled his promise.
As a result, the Football Association of Thailand may face a fine of hundreds of thousands of baht, depending on the match official's report. Since the fireworks were lit after the game, did not interrupt play, nor damage the stadium, the penalty may be reduced.
Yesterday, Chanathip posted on his personal social media about the fireworks incident: "I might have to pay a fine. May I ask, could you help cover it? 100 baht each," tagging the Ultras Thailand fan group.
Shortly after, Teerathon Bunmathan became the first Thai national team player to comment on Chanathip's post, offering to help with the fine but jokingly said, "Oh, you're the chairman of the fireworks fundraiser now? Account number please. I'll chip in 20 baht, captain."
Chanathip promptly replied to Teerathon's comment, "Do you have 100,000 baht?" Fans responded with many likes and laughter. However, the fine and punishment details remain pending the Asian Football Confederation (AFC)'s review.
