Vietnam Volleyball Federation speaks out about ban on Dang Thi Hong

In a statement on September 12, the Vietnam Volleyball Federation (VFV) affirmed: “Official tournaments of the Vietnam Volleyball Federation and clubs are all part of the FIVB registration system. Therefore, athletes who are not qualified as determined by FIVB will not be allowed to participate until further notice.”

Previously, striker Dang Thi Hong was banned by FIVB from the U21 World Cup in Indonesia after being found ineligible to compete. The incident caused the Vietnam U21 team to lose 4 group stage matches (with Dang Thi Hong's participation), thereby losing the chance to enter the round of 16.

Immediately after receiving the information, VFV held an urgent meeting and decided to suspend Dang Thi Hong from the second phase of the 2025 National Championship as well as tournaments in the official system from September 2025.

Regarding the issue of gender testing of athletes that is of particular concern to the public, VFV said that this process will be implemented synchronously from the 2026 season. "The determination of gender disorder for athletes will be carried out according to specific instructions from FIVB, functional units and ensure accuracy," VFV stated.

Thus, in 2025, some athletes with suspicion will still be allowed to compete normally until the end of the season.

For athletes participating in the SEA Games, VFV said the qualification testing process will follow the regulations of the Organizing Committee and the instructions of the Department of Physical Training and Sports .