The Vietnam Volleyball Federation (VFV) appealed to the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) to disclose the reason behind the sanctions imposed on U21 volleyball player Dang Thi Hong and the entire women’s volleyball team.
According to FIVB’s official statement, VFV fielded an ineligible player for the ongoing FIVB U21 Women’s World Championship 2025 in Indonesia.
The sports body did not mention the name of the player but said that the Vietnam U21 member was not allowed to play in the tournament according to Article 12.2 of the FIVB Disciplinary Regulations 2023.
Vietnam’s U21 women’s volleyball team was expected to reach the last 16 of the tournament, but FIVB decided to forfeit all matches in which Dang Thi Hong played.
Gender issue
The rising star, who is known for her leaping ability and spiking power, has already experienced lots of scrutiny due to her physique, with some volleyball supporters claiming the 19-year-old resembles a man.
The Nation reported that possible irregularities in the player’s “chromosome test” might be the reason for the FIVB’s sanctions on Dang Thi Hong and the entire U21 team.
But the volleyball body failed to disclose whether the penalties were related to gender, doping, or even documentation issues.
VFV Secretary General Le Tri Truong confirmed on Wednesday that the federation sent a letter to FIVB, requesting the body to explain the real reason behind its penalties on Dang Thi Hong and Vietnam’s U21 team.
“VFV and the U21 team were very surprised by the decision. We have done nothing wrong and have complied with all the organisers’ requirements.”
“Whether the violation is considered from the athlete’s side or the federation’s, we are still in discussion with FIVB and affirm that we always adhere to tournament regulations,” Truong said, as reported by Vietnam Net Global.
Vietnam Net Global also reported that issues in Dang Thi Hong’s birth year might be a factor for the FIVB sanctions.
But FIVB has already stressed that it will make no further comment on the issue while investigations are ongoing.
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Fight continues
With FIVB forfeiting the wins of Vietnam’s U21 squad in the group stage, the women’s team are now relegated to the 17th-24th play-off matches.
Vietnam’s young squad managed to defeat Egypt’s U21 team, 3-1, on Wednesday despite the issues surrounding the team.
The U21 team will be facing Chile’s squad for the 17th-20th rankings. The match would also serve as their final game in the tournament.
“Regardless of the situation, the team must continue to play. After the incident, VFV spoke with the coaching staff to ensure the athletes stayed focused and gave their all for the national colors,” Truong said.
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