"Madam Pang" has made a decision regarding the lawsuit against Somyot's Football Association over a 360 million baht debt.
On 22 June 2026, Madam Pang Nualphan Lamsam, President of the Football Association of Thailand under Royal Patronage, answered media questions during a press conference after a board meeting, announcing that the association has reached an agreement on the debt repayment plan owed to Siam Sport Syndicate Public Company Limited and Cineplex Company Limited (True Group).
The debt originated in 2016 under the previous administration of the association, which had revoked Siam Sport's rights to manage sponsorship and broadcast. This led to prolonged lawsuits across three courts over ten years, until the Supreme Court ruled against the association, ordering it to repay 360 million baht plus interest to Siam Sport.
The association has already fully paid 120 million baht of the debt to Siam Sport as of 30 March 2026. The remaining debt of 240 million baht, owed by Siam Sport Syndicate Public Company Limited to Cineplex Company Limited, is also binding on the association.
The repayment plan is divided into two parts: cash payments as agreed in installments, and granting exclusive broadcasting rights—including live and rerun broadcasts of Thailand national football matches—via OTT, IPTV, and Pay TV across all platforms operated by True Group or its affiliates, along with related marketing benefits. This arrangement with Cineplex spans four years from 2026 to 2029, offsetting part of the remaining debt. The rest will be paid monthly in cash installments.
Regarding pursuing lawsuits against the former Football Association that caused the substantial debt, Madam Pang said, "Actually, the statute of limitations has passed. When I took office, I was aware of this debt and believed I could resolve it. When the Supreme Court ruling came out, I was shocked and deeply saddened."
"However, everyone who elected me contributed to my role, including former President Worawi Makudi who invited me into this field, and President Somyot Poompanmoung who also supported my presidency of the association."
"If we were to pursue lawsuits further, we would have to pursue everyone involved, but this community is like family and friends. The key players, Siam Sport and True Group, have already provided significant assistance. Past events must now be left behind."
