Football Association of Thailand (FAT) is facing a fat fine of THB1 million from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) after a group of Thai fans lit up flares during a championship match in December.
The AFF Suzuki Cup Final on Dec. 17 ended with the War Elephants’ victory over Indonesia, and a group of fans decided to celebrate by lighting up the smuggled flares, an action that disturbed the entire stadium and is strictly prohibited by FIFA regulations.
Today the Football Association of Thailand’s website published the letter from AFC which ordered them to pay a fine of USD30,000 (THB1.07 million) within 30 days for violating the disciplinary code. The letter warned that future violations will result in more severe punishments.
Kapook reported that Pathit Supapong, a FAT spokesperson, said that the association has been working hard to assure the AFC that they take this problem seriously. He asked Thai football fans to follow the rules in order to avoid any punishment.
Meanwhile, some members of Ultra Thailand, the hardcore football fans who allegedly cracked open the flares, have reported themselves to the police on Dec. 23 following their arrest warrant. The leader of the group denied responsibility, saying that they do not support any illegal activity or intent to damage Thai football scene’s reputation, Daily News reported.
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