Siam Sport set to sue Thai FA
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Media giant Siam Sport Syndicate is preparing to take the Football Association of Thailand to court over what it claims was “unethical act and unfair treatment” in cancelling its long-standing commercial-rights contract.
Earlier this week, new FA president Somyot Poompanmuang announced the annulment of the contract, signed during the tenure of his predecessor Worawi Makudi.
Former national police chief Somyot explained the decision by saying the contract was unfair since it did not stipulate specific returns for the FA. Siam Sport has also been prohibited from broadcasting domestic football.
Siam Sport Syndicate board chairman Adisai Warinsirikun yesterday hit back at allegations against his company, insisting that the contract was carried out correctly.
“We would like to make it clear that the contract is fair. We received a letter dated March 8 informing us of the contract’s cancellation. The allegations levelled against us [in the letter] are unfair and cause direct damage to us.
“The contract stipulates that it can be cancelled if there is an infringement by either party.
“We have carried out the broadcasting of the game under the terms of the contract. We’ve sought more money for [member] clubs each year. The association also has sponsorship deals until 2020. So, nothing indicates that we committed any breach.
“But now they [the FA] have suddenly announced the cancellation of the deal, which severely damaged our image. It could mislead people into thinking we committed an offence.
“The contract’s annulment has rendered other sponsorship deals void, including the new TV rights deal, which is worth Bt4.2 billion for the next four years.”
Sarayuth Mahavaleerat, Siam Sport board vice chairman, said the company was considering legal action after the contract was leaked online.
“It cannot be made public, so we will file a suit over the action.”
