Encouragement for those who work diligently!! Finally, the 360-million-baht debt saga.
The dispute between the Thai Football Association and Siam Sport that lasted nearly a decade.
Has finally reached a resolution that is satisfactory to all parties—creditors and debtors alike—without conflict.
Even the original cause of the debt problem has benefited from this full and final settlement.
Because they bear no responsibility whatsoever for the reckless actions they took without foresight.
Which caused enormous damage to the Thai football community.
I must say, if anyone isn’t ashamed, GU is ashamed for them, even for their children and grandchildren.
Last Monday afternoon, I was invited by the association to attend a joint press conference of all three parties at the FA Thailand headquarters.
As a journalist who has witnessed the changes in football association management through all eras.
Many other football reporters have closely followed this story continuously.
It's a pity some never got to see this final conclusion like I did, having passed away beforehand.
Just think about how long this case has lasted!
Therefore, the joint announcement by “Madam Pang” Nualphan Lamsam, the iron-willed female head of Thai football,
alongside Ong-ard Prapakmon, big boss of Cineplex Co., Ltd. or TrueVisions,
and “Lawyer Bo” Narinpong Jinapak, legal representative from Siam Sport Syndicate Public Company Limited,
marks an important historic moment for those who truly have a “heart for Thai football”!
They have come together to find the most harmonious solution.
Regarding the details of debt repayment and transfer among the organizations,
I will not elaborate at length as the public has already been informed through the official announcements.
In short, the agreement reached was without problems.
Credit must be given to “Madam Pang” for her heartfelt business dealings with all involved parties.
To the extent that “Lawyer Bo” Narinpong publicly praised her at the press conference, saying,
“If it weren’t for the woman named Nualphan having to face a 350-million-baht debt she didn’t cause, plus over 500 million in interest,”
“Anyone else would have resigned, but not the woman sitting beside me right here.”
Madam Pang believes this conclusion will strengthen the association's stability.
Eliminate the risk of asset seizure and freezing by creditors.
Which would affect both current and future operations.
This is likely the biggest concern for this petite female leader.
Because she certainly does not want to witness any asset seizures happening on her watch.
While she still holds the position of association president!
Another person I want to mention and credit equally is “Big A,” Police Colonel Naratch Sawettanan, life partner of the football chief.
He has been a constant advisor and supporter for his beloved wife.
Acting as her “wind beneath the wings,” supporting everything, including sports affairs.
Managing the Port Football Club and advising on the association’s management.
He prefers to stay out of the spotlight and work quietly behind the scenes.
Offering his silent encouragement rather than public attention.
This includes negotiations over debts with TrueVisions and Siam Sport.
Everything ended happily, as we see now.
It was “Big A” who sat down and negotiated gently with all parties, truly a gentleman.
This was revealed by Madam Pang herself during the press conference, which is why I feel confident writing about it.
Thai football is fortunate to have such a dependable and courageous leader as a pillar of support.
Some policies during Madam Pang’s tenure may not have pleased everyone.
Or met the high expectations of football fans, that is true.
But believe me, now that the toughest challenge—clearing the association’s debts—has been resolved,
future football development plans, following correct steps, will be implemented effectively.
They will bear fruit in the days to come, without doubt.
Let’s all support those who are sincerely working hard!
- Bee Bangpakong -