How a Thai duty-free mogul transformed an English football club through faith and fortune
In short: Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha turned a long-shot football team into champions, blending business acumen with Buddhist tradition. Beyond his success in retail, his tenure at Leicester City was defined by an unusual philosophy of karma, high-stakes generosity, and a tragic end that left a lasting mark on the sport's history.
Born Vichai Raksriaksorn in 1958, the billionaire founder of King Power duty-free shops became a transformative figure in English football. His entry into the sport began after attending the 1997 League Cup final, eventually leading to his 2010 acquisition of Leicester City. Under his ownership, the club underwent a dramatic evolution, including the rebranding of its home ground to King Power Stadium in 2011. His leadership style was marked by both professional ambition and personal conviction, earning him an honorary doctorate from the University of Leicester in 2016.
The 2015–16 season remains the defining moment of his tenure. Leicester City achieved a historic Premier League victory, defying extreme pre-season odds that had placed them as massive outsiders. Following this triumph, Vichai demonstrated his characteristic generosity by gifting nineteen players BMW i8 vehicles, each valued at £100,000. Beyond the pitch, he was a dedicated polo player and president of London's Ham Polo Club, reflecting a life that bridged diverse sporting and cultural worlds.
Vichai’s management was deeply influenced by his Buddhist faith. He believed that the team’s performance was tied to karma, frequently inviting monks from Wat Traimit to bless players. This spiritual support became a hallmark of the club's culture. His life ended abruptly in October 2018, when his helicopter crashed outside the stadium. The tragedy prompted an outpouring of tributes and an eight-day funeral in Thailand. In 2025, his family initiated a legal claim against the helicopter manufacturer, Leonardo, seeking over £2 billion in damages, marking a final, complex chapter in his legacy.
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