KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 16 — The International Sepaktakraw Federation (ISTAF) has imposed fines on five Thailand national players and three team officials over the abandonment of the final at the ISTAF Sepaktakraw World Cup Kuala Lumpur 2026 in May.
ISTAF secretary-general Datuk Abdul Halim Kader said its Disciplinary Hearing Panel which convened in Bangkok on Aug 10, found all eight individuals involved guilty in connection with the incident.
He said the final was abandoned and halted at about 12.05 am on May 24.
“The three principal players were each fined US$6,000 (RM24,507), while the two reserve players were each fined US$5,000 (RM20,422.50). Their respective suspensions have already been served.
“The two coaches were each fined US$8,000 (RM32,676) while the team manager was fined US$10,000 (RM40,845) with their respective suspensions also having been served,” he said in a statement yesterday.
The three principal players are Phutawan Sopa, Wichan Temkort and Jakkrit Thinbangbon, while Sittipong Khamchan and Chattuphon Siriart are the two reserve players.
National coach Narachit Kalachan and assistant coach Sahachat Sakhoncharoen were the two coaches sanctioned, while Auychai Srisuwan is the team manager.
Meanwhile, Abdul Halim said under the ISTAF Disciplinary Procedure Regulation, any fine that remains unpaid within 14 days from the date of receipt of the penalty notice would result in a suspension of between one and two years.
“An appeal may be filed within 14 days from the date of receipt of the penalty notice, accompanied by an appeal fee of US$500,” he said.
He said the decision was signed on Aug 11 by members of the ISTAF Disciplinary Hearing Panel comprising representatives from five countries. — Bernama
