Vietnam's Department of Sports announces the suspension of Đặng Thị Hồng from competition

Vietnam's Department of Sports has issued a statement concerning the international competition ban on Đặng Thị Hồng, confirming ongoing cooperation to safeguard the athlete's interests.

At the third-quarter regular meeting of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Deputy Director of Vietnam's Department of Sports, Ms. Lê Thị Hoàng Yến, officially addressed the case of athlete Đặng Thị Hồng being barred from competing in the 2025 U21 World Volleyball Championship, emphasizing that the sports sector is closely collaborating with relevant parties to defend the athlete's rights.

Ms. Yến stated that all athletes' records for domestic and international competitions are strictly stored and managed according to regulations. Before participating in any tournaments, each athlete’s personal file is thoroughly reviewed by the sports department, federation, and related units.

However, depending on the specific rules of each tournament, organizers may request additional documentation. “The federation has directly coordinated with international organizations to complete the documentation in accordance with proper procedures,” the official affirmed.

The Deputy Director also emphasized that if an athlete faces disputes or unfair treatment, the Department of Sports, the Federation, and the Vietnam Olympic Committee will collaborate with lawyers and international referees to protect their legitimate rights, not only in volleyball but across various sports.

Previously, the International Volleyball Federation (FIVB) announced a competition ban for 19-year-old outside hitter Đặng Thị Hồng due to “ineligibility to participate.” This sanction prevented her from competing in the U21 World Championship and barred her from participating in tournaments under the Vietnam Volleyball Federation (VFV), including the second phase of the 2025 National Championship.

After returning from the youth national team, Đặng Thị Hồng is currently training with her home club in Thái Nguyên. Besides physical training and maintaining her personal form, she has also ventured into online business to support herself during the suspension period.

It is reported that the Vietnam Volleyball Federation and Thái Nguyên Club are planning to assist Hồng in enrolling at Bắc Ninh University of Sports. This is viewed as a new direction to help her transition into a coaching role in the future if she continues her career in the sport.