The Cong Viettel proposed that Vietnam Professional Football Joint Stock Company (VPF) consider arranging an international referee team including the main referee, VAR referee and assistants (if any) to officiate the match of round 21 of V.League and the National Cup semi-final between the two teams scheduled to take place on June 11, 2026.
In a document sent to VPF, the army team said that these are important matches, directly affecting the overall ranking as well as the opportunity to compete for titles of the teams. The invitation of international referees is expected to contribute to ensuring fairness, objectivity, and transparency in management work, while improving the professional quality of the tournament.
Currently, The Cong Viettel is waiting for an official response from VPF regarding the above proposal.
This is not the first time this team has proposed using foreign referees. Previously, on November 18, 2025, The Cong Viettel sent a similar official letter of proposal, but it has not been approved.
The latest move by The Cong Viettel takes place in the context that refereeing work continues to receive attention in recent rounds. In the 1-1 draw with Song Lam Nghe An in round 17 of V.League 2025-2026 on April 5, a controversial situation appeared when Lucao's goal was not recognized after consulting VAR.
After the match, coach Velizar Popov said he respected the decision of the refereeing team, and questioned the coordination between the main referee and the VAR team in this situation from a professional perspective.
