Bangkok: 'Madam Pang' Nualphan Lamsam, President of the Football Association of Thailand, has taken a significant step by donating 25 million baht of her personal funds to aid the association in settling its debts to Siam Sport Syndicate Public Company Limited.
According to Thai News Agency, this donation was made to comply with a court order and to prevent the Department of Enforcement from seizing or freezing the association's assets. 'Lawyer Bo' Narinpong Jinaphakdi, representing Siam Sport Company Limited, received this donation as a guarantee. Despite not being responsible for the debt, 'Madam Pang' is committed to paying off the remaining 570 million baht, which includes 360 million baht in principal debt and 210 million baht in interest.
The upcoming step involves further discussions between the association and Siam Sport Company on May 14th to negotiate the remaining debt. 'Madam Pang' humorously remarked that her contribution caused her to miss out on purchasing desired earrings.
Additionally, 'Madam Pang' has contributed another 5 million baht to fund the board of directors' expenses, including allowances and travel, to alleviate the association's financial constraints. The 'Thai People Love Thai Football' campaign has been launched to generate income for the association, beginning with 'Boy' Takonkiet Viravan's special musical performance, which has already raised 15 million baht towards a 30 million baht target.
In collaboration with WARRIX, the association's main sponsor, special edition shirts are being designed and will be sold on the association's website in June. This initiative coincides with the Thai national team's matches against India and Turkmenistan during the Asian Cup qualifiers.
The Thai national team will also engage in Road Show activities across four regions: Bangkok, Songkhla, Chiang Mai, and Nakhon Ratchasima. These events will feature matches between the Thai national team All Star team and local influencers and former players, aiming to support the association and the Thai football industry through the current financial challenges.