MITRAPOL.com, Singapore – The International Sepaktakraw Federation (ISTAF) has confirmed that it will not pursue disciplinary proceedings against seven players from the Thailand National Sepaktakraw Team following the incident that allegedly occurred during the Final Match of the TM ISTAF Sepaktakraw World Cup Kuala Lumpur 2026 on May 24, 2026.
The decision was announced by ISTAF on Wednesday (June 24, 2026), after its Executive Committee and Disciplinary Committee reviewed the appeal and representations submitted by the Takraw Association of Thailand (TAT), led by President Thana Chaiprasit and Secretary General Dr. Srihasak Arirachakaran.
ISTAF said it appreciated TAT’s reaffirmation of support for the disciplinary process and its commitment to fully cooperate in ensuring that all relevant facts and circumstances are properly presented.
After considering the circumstances and the relatively minor involvement of the remaining players, ISTAF decided that seven athletes from Thailand’s First and Second Regus would not be subjected to disciplinary proceedings.
The players are:
First Regu
- Marukin Phanmakon (Captain)
- Jirasak Pakbuangoen
- Porhthep Tinbangbon
- Kritsada Sunvung (Reserve Player)
Second Regu
- Wuttinun Kamsanor (Captain)
- Tanaphon Sapyen
- Kritsanapong Nontakote
Instead of disciplinary action, the seven players will receive a Formal Warning and will be required to sign an Undertaking reaffirming their commitment to sportsmanship, respect for Match Officials, and compliance with the ISTAF Constitution, Rules and Regulations.
According to ISTAF, the athletes from the First and Second Regus had already completed their respective matches and had only limited involvement in the events that led to the abandonment of the final match.
The federation stated that it would be unfair and inappropriate to include individuals who were not directly involved in the principal disciplinary proceedings.
However, disciplinary proceedings against five players from Thailand’s Third Regu, together with the relevant coaches and Team Manager, will continue in accordance with the ISTAF Constitution and Disciplinary Regulations.
ISTAF said the proceedings are intended to establish the facts and determine responsibility through an independent and impartial process.
At the same time, the federation stressed that the ongoing disciplinary process should not diminish Thailand’s reputation and standing as one of the greatest nations in the history of Sepaktakraw.
Over several decades, Thailand has made extraordinary contributions to the development of the sport. Generations of world-class players, coaches, and officials from the country have helped raise global standards and inspired many nations to embrace Sepaktakraw.
ISTAF also expressed confidence in the future of Thailand’s young athletes and said the unfortunate incident during the World Cup Final should serve as an important lesson not only for Thailand but also for the entire international Sepaktakraw community.
“Thailand is a great Sepaktakraw nation and an indispensable member of the global Sepaktakraw family. One unfortunate incident does not define the future of a country that has contributed so much to our sport,” said ISTAF Secretary General Datuk Abdul Halim Kader.
“ISTAF believes in discipline when necessary, but we also believe in education, rehabilitation and second chances. We are confident that Thailand will emerge stronger from this experience and continue to inspire the world with its passion, excellence and commitment to Sepaktakraw,” he added.
The International Sepaktakraw Federation reiterated its commitment to protecting the integrity of the sport while ensuring fairness, due process, and respect for all parties involved.
