Kanchanaburi Coach Apologizes for Thai Team Remarks
Kanchanaburi Power FC coach Park Hang-seo apologized for comparing Thailand's national team unfavorably to Vietnam following a Thai League 2 match, saying his remarks about referee standards were misunderstood and did not reflect his respec
Park Hang-seo, head coach of Kanchanaburi Power FC, issued an apology to Thai football fans for comments made about the national team following a Thai League 2 match on September 16 against Nakhon Pathom United, which ended in a 1-1 draw. Kanchanaburi played with reduced players in the match, and after the final whistle, Park Hang-seo launched a sharp attack on the referee's performance. At one point, he stated, "Now I understand why Thailand's national team keeps losing to Vietnam lately—because of referees like this. This is the reason Thai football cannot progress."
The South Korean coach, who previously led Vietnam's national team, has now issued a formal apology for those remarks. In his statement, he said: "I sincerely apologize to all Thai football fans for any discomfort and feelings caused by my post-match comments. My intention at that time was only to highlight the importance of improving referee standards and ensuring fair competition, so that together we can advance and develop Thai football. I did not intend to diminish Thailand's national team, Thai football, or Thai players in any way, nor did I wish to create conflict or drama by comparing with any other country.
"However, I fully realize that my use of comparative language between Thailand's and Vietnam's national teams may have caused discomfort, disappointment, and hurt the feelings of fans who love and support Thai football. I therefore sincerely apologize to everyone for what happened. I want to confirm that I have always respected Thai football and earnestly hope it will develop continuously and achieve great success on the international stage.
"As head coach of Kanchanaburi Power FC and as someone who has become part of Thai football, I am ready to fulfill my duties with responsibility, respect, and determination to continue contributing to Thai football's development. This incident is an important lesson for me, and going forward I will be more careful with my words and mindful of the potential impact my comments may have.
"From now on, I will prove my sincerity through dedication, hard work, and performance on the pitch, rather than through words. I ask for the understanding of all Thai football fans and sincerely apologize once again for any feelings hurt by this incident."
