Thai Badminton Association Drops Victor, Stars Quit Over Chinese Brand

Following Victor's announcement on October 22, 2026, that it was terminating its sponsorship of the Badminton Association of Thailand, despite a formal press conference on July 5, news reports indicate that the July 5 event was only an MOU signing awaiting the association president's signature, which was withheld over disagreements on athlete development details. Even though Victor eventually accepted all negotiated terms — including 1.3 million USD for the first year — and committee members confirmed Victor had agreed to every condition, the association abruptly scrapped the deal and convened an emergency meeting to select Kumpoo, a Chinese brand, instead.

Several committee members heard of Kumpoo for the first time at that meeting; the brand is considered a lower tier and has previously been sued by Thai clubs. The agreement was rushed through after just one to two weeks of negotiation and locks in an eight-year contract. Some members objected, noting the mere $60,000 gap was negligible for a deal of this magnitude and that Victor's globally recognized stature outweighed the small difference. They also argued contracts should align with the committee's three-to-four-year term, not eight years, but their dissent was ignored and a resolution was forced through.

Additionally, five close associates of the current leadership were appointed to the committee, prompting dissenting members to prepare resignations or face removal. This turmoil prompted national women's doubles pair Nuntakarn "Anna" and Benyapa "Muna" Aimsaard to announce their departure from the national team, with more athletes expected to follow due to concerns over equipment standards.

The upheaval has also disappointed Khunying Patama Leeswadtrakul, president of the Badminton World Federation, who had strongly backed the current administration. She has now withdrawn all support, stating the leadership has done a complete about-face and excluded her from key decisions. While Victor could legally pursue damages or an injunction, it chose only to issue a polite termination notice, partly out of respect for Khunying Patama's role in elevating Thai badminton globally.