Leicester City and King Power Group Unveil Statue of Late Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha in His Hometown
*May 23, 2025 – Bangkok, Thailand*
In an emotional tribute to a man whose vision and leadership transformed Leicester City Football Club into a global football powerhouse, the King Power Group and Leicester City have unveiled a bronze statue of the late Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha in his hometown of Bangkok, Thailand. The statue, symbolizing gratitude and legacy, stands proudly outside the King Power headquarters, capturing the heartfelt bond between a beloved owner, his club, and millions of fans worldwide.
The ceremony was attended by senior Leicester City officials, club players, fans, members of the Srivaddhanaprabha family, and high-ranking figures from Thai society. It was not just a commemoration of a business titan, but a celebration of a legacy that united a football club and an entire community through compassion, humility, and unforgettable success.
**A Visionary Leader Remembered**
Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, the late owner and chairman of Leicester City, tragically passed away in a helicopter crash outside King Power Stadium in October 2018. His death sent shockwaves through the football world, with fans and players mourning the loss of a man widely admired for his generosity, loyalty, and visionary leadership.
Under Vichai’s stewardship, Leicester City achieved the unthinkable: winning the Premier League title in the 2015-2016 season. It was a triumph considered one of the greatest underdog stories in sports history. His strategic investments, commitment to community engagement, and nurturing club culture helped turn the Foxes into a respected and admired force in European football.
**Statue Symbolizes Respect and Unity**
The newly unveiled statue portrays Vichai smiling warmly, one hand raised in acknowledgment, and the other holding a Leicester City scarf. It is mounted on a granite pedestal inscribed with the words: *“Forever in Our Hearts – A Dream Maker, A Family Man, Our Chairman.”*
His son and current chairman, Aiyawatt “Top” Srivaddhanaprabha, delivered a heartfelt speech during the unveiling.
> “My father always believed in the power of unity, respect, and giving back. This statue is not just a tribute to him as a leader, but as a man who cared deeply about people. He loved Leicester. He loved Thailand. And he lived to make a difference. Today, we honor that spirit.”
**Players and Fans Pay Tribute**
Several Leicester City players—past and present—made the trip to Bangkok for the unveiling. Jamie Vardy, who played a pivotal role in the 2016 title win, laid a wreath at the statue’s base and spoke of Vichai’s profound impact.
> “He wasn’t just our chairman—he was like a father figure to us. He believed in us when nobody else did. We owe him everything. This statue is a beautiful tribute to a truly special man.”
Supporters from both Thailand and the UK also gathered in large numbers, many wearing club colors and holding signs reading “Forever Our Chairman” and “Thank You, Vichai.”
Thai fans, in particular, shared stories of how Vichai’s philanthropy helped their communities. Beyond football, he was known for donating millions to hospitals, schools, and youth programs, solidifying his place as a national icon.
**Global Recognition for Local Impact**
Representatives from the Premier League and other international football clubs sent their respects, recognizing Vichai’s lasting impact on the sport.
Richard Masters, Chief Executive of the Premier League, issued a statement:
> “Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha redefined what club ownership could be. He showed that kindness, generosity, and a long-term vision could coexist with competitive success. His legacy continues to inspire clubs around the world.”
**Looking to the Future with Gratitude**
While the statue unveiling was a moment of reflection and remembrance, it also served as a reminder of the legacy that continues through his son, Aiyawatt, and the King Power Group’s ongoing commitment to Leicester City and the communities it touches.
Aiyawatt reaffirmed that the club would continue to uphold the values his father instilled.
> “He always said, ‘Let’s dream big, but stay humble.’ That’s what we’re doing at Leicester City—building a future with heart, with ambition, and with honor.”
As the sun set over the statue, fans lit candles, sang club songs, and quietly paid their respects. For Leicester supporters and the people of Thailand, the bronze figure now standing tall in Bangkok is more than a statue—it is a symbol of what can be achieved when leadership is rooted in love, and dreams are guided by belief.
Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha may be gone, but his spirit lives on—in Leicester’s triumphs, in Thailand’s hearts, and now, forever immortalized in bronze.
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