1996–97 Thailand Soccer League


Between 1916 and 1995, the Kor Royal Cup was the top level of club football competition. In 1996 the Thai Premier League was established by the Football Association of Thailand, sponsored by whiskey manufacturing brand Johnnie Walker.
In its first season, 1996/97, the Thai Premier League consisted of 18 teams from the Kor Royal Cup. Top 4 teams in the final league table would be qualified for championship playoffs, and six teams at the bottom of the league table would be relegated to the Thailand Division 1 League which was to be created next season.
The defending Champions of the Kor Royal Cup, Thai Farmers Bank FC, would enter the next edition of the Asian Club Championship.

Member clubs locations

Championship playoff

Top 4 of the league qualified for championship playoff.

Semifinals

February 23, 1997

Final

March 16, 1997
Champions : Bangkok Bank.

Season notes

Coach of the Year

The league champion was Bangkok Bank. It was the team's first title.