Thai FA Vows Tighter Safety Standards After Groundskeeper Incident
English striker Andros Townsend was struck by a grass-cutting machine at halftime of a Thai League match on September 20, prompting the Football Association of Thailand to enforce stricter safety standards across professional competitions.
The Football Association of Thailand has issued a statement following an incident in which Andros Townsend, a 35-year-old English striker for PT Prachuap, was struck by a grass-cutting machine while warming up with teammates during halftime of a Thai League match against Pattani FC. The incident occurred on September 20 at a match where Pattani FC lost 0-3 to PT Prachuap. During the halftime warm-up, Townsend was hit by the groundskeeping equipment, sparking concerns about player safety.
The FA stated that its professional league competition management division has established regulations and standards for professional football to ensure orderly, standardized competition that prioritizes the safety of all involved parties. Following the incident at Tinsulanan Stadium on September 19, the FA has instructed match commissioners, referees, officials, and all member clubs to strictly adhere to competition regulations and safety standards, with particular emphasis on protecting players, staff, match officials, volunteers, and spectators.
The FA has also directed match commissioners and member clubs to increase oversight of official compliance with regulations and standards, and to verify the readiness of venues, security systems, and spectator facilities. The association stated it takes the highest priority on safety for all involved and will investigate the incident thoroughly, review related procedures, and strengthen operational standards to prevent future safety risks. The FA emphasized that professional football competitions must proceed with order, proper standards, and robust safety assurance for all players, staff, and fans.
