MITRAPOL.com, Singapore – The International Sepaktakraw Federation (ISTAF) has initiated disciplinary proceedings against five Thai national sepaktakraw players, two coaches, and one team manager over an incident that occurred during the final match of the TM ISTAF Sepaktakraw World Cup Kuala Lumpur 2026 on May 24, 2026.
The decision was made by the ISTAF Disciplinary Committee during its meeting on June 19, 2026, after reviewing reports and information related to the incident.
The disciplinary action stems from allegations that members of Thailand’s Third Regu refused to continue the championship match despite instructions from match officials in accordance with the Laws of the Game and competition regulations. The investigation also covers the alleged involvement of two coaches and the team manager regarding their roles in the incident.
The five players named as respondents in the disciplinary proceedings are: Wichan Temkort, Jakkrit Thinbangbon, Phutawan Sopa, Sittipong Khamchan, and Chattuphon Siriart.
In addition, two coaches and the manager of the Thailand National Sepaktakraw Team are also subject to disciplinary proceedings.
ISTAF stated that official notices of the disciplinary proceedings and respective charges have been formally served through the Thailand Sepaktakraw Association (TAT). All respondents have been given 14 days from the date of receiving the notices to submit written responses before the cases proceed to disciplinary hearings.
Pending the final outcome, the ISTAF Disciplinary Committee has issued an interim order prohibiting all respondents from participating in, coaching, managing, officiating, or being involved in any ISTAF-recognized sepaktakraw competitions, tournaments, events, or official activities.
The suspension applies to them in any capacity, including as players, coaches, team managers, officials, or any other role related to sepaktakraw activities under ISTAF jurisdiction until the disciplinary proceedings are concluded or until further directives are issued by the committee.
ISTAF emphasized that the interim order is an administrative and preventive measure designed to safeguard the integrity of the disciplinary process and ensure the proper governance of its competitions. The measure does not constitute a final disciplinary sanction and should not be interpreted as a finding of guilt against any respondent.
All respondents will be afforded full opportunities to present their defense before the ISTAF Disciplinary Committee in accordance with the ISTAF Disciplinary Regulations and the principles of natural justice.
ISTAF Secretary-General Datuk Abdul Halim Kader said sepaktakraw is built upon the values of respect, discipline, sportsmanship, and integrity.
“Every player, coach, and team official participating in ISTAF competitions has the responsibility to uphold these values and respect the authority of match officials and competition regulations,” Abdul Halim Kader said on Tuesday (June 23, 2026).
According to him, the initiation of disciplinary proceedings reflects ISTAF’s commitment to protecting the integrity of its competitions while ensuring that all parties receive a fair and impartial process.
ISTAF reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, governance, and sportsmanship in all competitions under its jurisdiction. Any conduct that may undermine the integrity of competitions or the reputation of the sport will be addressed through disciplinary mechanisms that are fair, transparent, and based on due process.
As the disciplinary proceedings remain ongoing, ISTAF stated that it will refrain from making further comments on the merits of the case until the entire process has been completed.
