Leicester owner’s son vows to maintain ‘vision’ for club

The son of Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha pledged to continue his late father’s “big vision and dream” at Leicester City last night as the club discussed plans to include supporters in a series of commemorations.

Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha, known as “Top”, said he will do everything in his power to honour “a very big mission and legacy” as he thanked fans for their “overwhelming support” since the helicopter crash outside the King Power Stadium on Saturday night.

The club was last night discussing how supporters travelling to Saturday’s game at Cardiff City should play a part in pre-match tributes to the Thai billionaire and the four others who died. A supporters’ march from the city centre to the ground is due to take place before the club’s next home match, against Burnley, on Nov 10.

Speaking four days after the tragedy, Aiyawatt, 33, who is the club’s vice-chairman, paid emotional tribute to his father and suggested he would now play the leading role at the club. “I would like to thank everyone from the bottom of my heart for this overwhelming support,” he said. “Thank you, also, to Leicestershire Police and the emergency services. Their fast response kept a lot of people safe. Their professionalism and sensitivity since then have made the last few days as bearable as they could be.

“What happened made me realise how important my dad was to many people all over the world and I’m touched by how many people kept him close to their hearts.

“I’m proud to have such an extraordinary father. From him, I have received a very big mission and legacy to pass on and I intend to do just that. I know that I will receive the support I need to make this happen and I am so grateful for all your messages and kind words.”

Vichai’s wife, two sons and two daughters are on the executive board of the King Power company he founded. Aiyawatt said: “For a long time, my father taught me to be strong and to take care of my family. He loved his family. He made Leicester City into a family. And nothing would make him prouder than to see how the Leicester City family that he built is supporting each other through a time of such sadness.

“My dad had a way of teaching me about life and work without making it seem like a lesson. He was my mentor and role model.

“Today, he has left me with a legacy to continue and I will do everything I can to carry on his big vision and dreams. My family and I would like to thank each and every one of you for your sincere kindness and good intentions during the most difficult time for us. I miss you, Dad, with all of my heart.”

Five of the club’s fan groups: the Supporters’ Club, the Foxes Trust, the Disabled Supporters Association, Foxes Pride and Union FS, were meeting to plan their tribute to the owner at the Burnley match.