Thai Poker Association Denies Involvement in THAILAND OPEN Urges Sports Authority to Set Clear Standards Over Concerns for National Poker Scene - Thairath English

Thana Julpanasak, President of the Thai Poker Sports Association (TPSA), confirmed that the association has no involvement in organizing the THAILAND OPEN POKER CHAMPIONSHIP 2026 held in Chinese Taipei. The clarification follows confusion caused by a similarly named organization. He also raised concerns about the use of the Thailand Open name, the Thai national flag, and the former Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) governor's name in the event, urging the Sports Authority of Thailand to investigate and set clear guidelines to prevent negative impacts on the Thai poker community as a whole.

Thana Julpanasak, President of the Thai Poker Sports Association (TPSA), revealed that misunderstandings have arisen within the Thai poker sports community due to the organization of the THAILAND OPEN POKER CHAMPIONSHIP 2026 in Chinese Taipei on 23 October. The event featured the Thai Poker Association in English as "TPA," which is similar to the TPSA name, causing many inquiries about any connections. He affirmed that the Thai Poker Sports Association (TPSA) had no part in organizing that event. To date, the association's role has been limited to supporting activities and competitions within its capacity, as poker in Thailand is still in the early stages of development regarding regulations, procedures, and mutual understanding.

"In recent days, many have asked if the association organized an event abroad and why the names are so similar. I must clarify that our Thai Poker Sports Association did not organize the THAILAND OPEN in Taiwan at all. Most of our involvement in competitions is limited to support where possible. I want those using the association's name to be mindful of accuracy since the organization names are very close. Therefore, greater caution and clear identification are necessary to avoid misunderstandings."

He also raised concerns about the appropriateness of using the name THAILAND OPEN for a tournament held outside Thailand, as well as the use of the Thai national flag as a symbol on athletes' uniforms, suggesting these matters should be examined for suitability and compliance with relevant standards.

"Seeing them organize an event called Thailand Open, I believe this name should more properly be used for events held within Thailand. I have never seen it held abroad and am unsure if it is appropriate. This issue should be addressed to the Sports Authority of Thailand. Additionally, the use of the Thai national flag on athletes' uniforms raises questions about compliance with regulations. Currently, poker-related organizations in Thailand hold the status of general associations, not official sports associations of Thailand. Therefore, when referring to players participating in international competitions, terminology should be clear—perhaps using 'Thai representative players'—to avoid misunderstanding that they are official national team athletes."

Another issue requiring scrutiny is the use of trophies labeled as belonging to a former governor of the Sports Authority of Thailand, including the phrase 'SAT Governor's Cup,' which appeared in promotional images for the competition. Questions arise about the origin and authorization for using the name or title of a former government official in connection with the event. "I understand that the trophies used are those of the former SAT governor, as seen in news photos and media showing clear labeling. I would like to know whether this use is permitted and proper, because using names, titles, or symbols linked to government agencies must have clear provenance and authorization."

Thana emphasized that the association's position as the first authorized Thai Poker Sports Association (TPSA) promoting poker as a sport is not to interfere with other organizations' operations but to raise awareness of potential impacts on the overall community. If unclear use of organizational names or status leads to public misunderstanding, it could harm the sport's reputation. He urged the Sports Authority of Thailand to oversee and establish clear guidelines on what activities are permissible or not.

"The media have already reported and published photos. I believe the Sports Authority of Thailand should take this seriously because we want poker to progress in the future, providing more opportunities for Thai players. I hope SAT will supervise and clearly regulate what should and should not be done."

The TPSA president also highlighted poker's potential as a New Generation Sport, emphasizing its reliance on skills such as thinking, analysis, planning, and decision-making. He cited Punnat Punsri, known as 'Boss,' a Thai poker player who achieved international recognition by winning the GPI Player of the Year award and ranking number one worldwide, demonstrating the potential of Thai players. He noted that if Thailand can properly develop its competition system and gain recognition for poker, it would allow Thai players to compete domestically, accumulate points, and improve their skills—especially for talented players lacking resources to travel abroad. Additionally, this could spur growth in related industries such as hospitality, dining, transportation, and services.

"Thailand is a final destination that attracts many tourists, including from Taiwan, Vietnam, Malaysia, Korea, Japan, and other countries. If we could host poker tournaments here, I believe numerous brands and companies would want to organize events in Thailand. However, our laws and procedures currently do not fully support this."

The president stated that the association's key goal is not only organizing competitions but also building a system that enables Thai players to compete domestically, earn points, develop skills, and advance to the global stage without bearing excessive travel costs abroad. He also questioned the appropriateness of holding events using the Thailand Open name abroad, especially given Thailand's capacity to host such tournaments.

"Everyone wants to organize and compete in tournaments, but if communication is mishandled, I fear it could create a negative image and cause authorities in Thailand to see it as improper. Instead of progressing through five steps toward our goal, we might have to take a step back. I don't want that to happen. I want everyone to respect current rules and work together to push for the rules we want, so Thai poker can reach the expected level more quickly," Thana said.