Buriram United Chief Defends Wearing Shorts to Ritual
Buriram United chairman Nevin Chidchob defended wearing shorts to a sacred Jatukham Ramathep ritual in Nakhon Si Thammarat, arguing that his decade-long commitment to the annual blessing ceremony demonstrates genuine respect regardless of a
On August 3, 2026, Nevin Chidchob, chairman of Buriram United Football Club, posted a statement defending his participation in the Jatukham Ramathep ritual at the City Pillar Shrine in Nakhon Si Thammarat following public criticism of his attire. Chidchob stated that he deeply respects and reveres Jatukham Ramathep, a sacred spirit figure that he keeps with him at all times.
Chidchob explained that for over a decade, Buriram United has conducted this annual blessing ceremony before the start of each season, bringing players, coaches, and staff to seek blessings and present championship trophies won throughout the year. He emphasized that this is a club tradition rooted in his personal faith and a way to foster respect for sacred beliefs among all team members.
The ceremony serves as a reminder of the commitments made to the shrine and sacred spirits, particularly the vow to remain loyal to football and achieve success for both individual players and the club. According to Chidchob, since the tradition began, Buriram United has won at least one championship each year.
Chidchob clarified that the ceremony is organized and funded entirely by the club, not by the provincial government or any state agency. While government officials, lawmakers, and provincial administrators have been invited as guests and hosts in recent years, they are attendees and not organizers.
Regarding the criticism over his clothing choice, Chidchob asserted that his decision to wear a club jersey and shorts is a personal right and one he has maintained for over a decade without objection from shrine officials. He argued that clothing style alone cannot reflect the depth of a person's respect or faith, but rather his consistent performance of this ritual over more than 10 years demonstrates his genuine reverence and devotion.
