From luxury yachts to courtroom drama – the multifaceted life of Thailand’s notorious socialite
Jirat “Champ” Petnunthawong, known widely by his Instagram moniker Champ Fabrique, hails from the affluent Petnunthawong family of Chiang Mai. His father, Worachat, leads a regional hotel chain, while his mother, Umpaipan, runs an aviation equipment business. Despite whispers calling him a nephew of former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, such claims remain unconfirmed. Champ was educated abroad, reportedly in Business Administration at University College London, which added a veneer of global sophistication to his persona.
The Glamorous Lifestyle
On social media, Champ paints himself as a “workaholic” enthralled by aviation, yachts, music, and private islands. He owned the now-closed Fabrique & Bar Rouge in Chiang Mai and has showcased extravagant events, like the ill-fated “Sydictive Element” New Year’s Eve party that brought several A‑list names under his banner. Yet, public records suggest that many of his business ventures are predominantly paper companies or projects with scant follow-through.
Public Controversies & Legal Battles
The Assault in Pattaya
In September 2020, Champ was embroiled in a violent incident at a Pattaya nightclub. He was accused of striking actor Rusameekae “Kae” Fagerlund in the face with a glass during a jealous outburst when Fagerlund greeted Champ’s then-girlfriend Namwan. CCTV footage confirmed the assault, leading to public outrage and an official complaint filed by the victim. Champ issued a public apology on Instagram, admitting his actions were impulsive.
Hit-and-Run on Koh Samui
Later that month, Champ was involved in a high-speed accident on Koh Samui. His car reportedly careened into a bridge barrier, carrying his companion Namwan along. Despite visible skid marks and injuries, no signs of alcohol were detected. Still, netizens criticized police leniency citing his privileged status.
Domestic Dispute and Child Custody Issues
Champ’s personal life also entangled him in legal turmoil. He was summoned by police following allegations from former partner Pariya “Janie” Saenmuang, claiming he forcibly took their infant son Aston and physically assaulted her. Though the child was eventually returned, Champ failed to respond to the police summons.
Business and Fraud Allegations
Investigative reports raised suspicions about Champ’s role as CEO of Pan Pacific Company. This Thai-registered firm reportedly secured a controversial $600 million airport deal in the Maldives, despite having negligible actual assets and being linked to shell operations. These concerns extend to other Maldives-based ventures allegedly led by Champ and his father.
Social Media Influence
With over 1 million Instagram followers and an engagement rate of ~1.7%, Champ has established a major online presence. His carefully curated lifestyle posts, featuring jet‑setting adventures, glamorous parties, and luxury assets, continue to attract fan attention, despite the legal controversies shadowing them.
Persona: Tycoon or Troublemaker?
Champ Fabrique represents a dichotomy: on one side, a charismatic “hi‑so” socialite who thrives among aviation elites, luxury goods, and regional glam; on the other, a figure repeatedly embroiled in scandals, violent incidents, traffic accidents, child custody fights, and questionable business dealings. While he projects power, privilege, and play, repeated legal dramas paint a more troubled portrait.
Conclusion
Jirat “Champ Fabrique” Petnunthawong embodies the complexity of contemporary Thai high society, where wealth and celebrity swirl with controversy and court summons. His life story is neither wholly triumphant nor wholly scandalous; it is a dynamic tale of ambition, excess, and reckoning. As his social media empire grows, so too does the scrutiny on his actions both online and offline. Whether future chapters reveal redemption or further unraveling remains to be seen.
