National —
On October 26th, 2024, Lakakorn “Pai” Chantharamane, manager of Thai League 2 club Samut Prakan City, announced plans to disband the team following a tumultuous match against Pattaya United at Lat Krabang’s Customs Stadium.
The game ended in a 0-0 draw, leaving Samut Prakan City ranked 16th with just 10 points from 10 matches. However, a post-match incident, in which Lakakorn reported alleged verbal abuse from Pattaya fans targeting players’ families, triggered his decision.
Lakakorn expressed deep frustration over Pattaya United fans allegedly hurling insults at Samut Prakan players and staff after the final whistle. Additionally, he criticized his own fan group leader for what he perceived as inappropriate behavior toward the team.
Lakakorn condemned the actions in a statement, describing the abusive fans as “unfit for football culture.” He went on to say, “Today, Samut Prakan City will be disbanded and will no longer compete in any event. Anyone with issues or comments can address them directly to me.”
According to Thai Football Association regulations, disbanding mid-season could result in a 2 million baht fine and require the club to repay financial support received for the season.
Additionally, all match results would be canceled, and Samut Prakan City would be stripped of its membership status.
As of press time, Pattaya United management had not officially responded although many Pattaya fans disputed statements made by Samut Prakan management with some claiming online that Samut Prakan players and fans started the verbal altercation.
