Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha

Business career

Vichai built King Power into a leading duty-free retailer that operates outlets at airports and travel hubs. His company expanded through concessions and retail operations, gaining a high public profile in Thailand. As a private businessman he was widely regarded as one of the country’s wealthiest people and used his commercial success to fund other ventures and ventures abroad.

Leicester City and sporting legacy

He acquired Leicester City in 2010 and invested in the club’s infrastructure, staff and squad. Under his ownership the club achieved remarkable competitive success, most famously winning the English Premier League in 2015–16 — regarded as one of the most unlikely title wins in modern sport. Vichai became a popular figure among supporters for his visible commitment to the team and the local community.

Philanthropy and honours

Beyond business and football, Vichai funded charitable projects, scholarships and civic initiatives in Thailand and in Leicester. His donations supported hospitals, education and community programmes. He received royal and civic recognitions during his life for his contributions to commerce and society.

Death and aftermath

On 27 October 2018 Vichai died when the helicopter carrying him crashed shortly after departing from the King Power Stadium in Leicester. The accident prompted an outpouring of grief from fans, colleagues and public figures, and led to official investigations that examined the causes of the crash. The club and local community held memorials and tributes, and his family—most prominently his son—continued to be involved with the football club after his death.

Notable facts

• Founder and long-time chairman of King Power, a major travel-retail company (business profile).
• Owned Leicester City from 2010; the club’s unexpected league triumph became a defining part of his public legacy.
• Remembered for philanthropy in both Thailand and Leicester and for close ties with the local community.