Controversy Erupts Over Refereeing in Buriram vs. Pattani Football Match
Former football association president Worawi Makudi has publicly criticized the officiating during a recent match between Buriram and Pattani, citing biased refereeing and questionable VAR decisions.
According to a report by Matichon Online on October 19, 2026, a football match between Buriram and Pattani has sparked significant controversy. Worawi Makudi, the former president of the Football Association of Thailand, publicly criticized the officiating, describing the referee's performance as heavily biased.
Central to the dispute is the application of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system. Makudi expressed strong dissatisfaction with the VAR standards applied during the game, suggesting that the decisions made were inconsistent with the observations of those present at the stadium. The match, which saw Buriram narrowly defeat Pattani, has left fans and officials questioning the integrity of the officiating process.
For residents and visitors interested in Thai football, this incident highlights ongoing debates regarding the consistency and transparency of match officiating in the domestic league. Such controversies can lead to heightened tensions among fan bases and may influence future discussions regarding the implementation of technology in Thai sports. At this stage, it remains to be confirmed whether the Football Association of Thailand will launch a formal investigation into the referee's conduct or the specific VAR protocols used during this match. Observers are currently waiting for an official statement from the league authorities to clarify the situation.
