The Vietnam Football Federation (VFF) does not agree to allow HAGL FC to change its name.

On November 10th, the Vietnam Football Federation (VFF) issued a letter responding to Hoang Anh Gia Lai Football Club's request to change its name. Previously, the team from the mountainous region had sent letter No. 153/CV-HAGL requesting the VFF's approval to use the new name " LPBank Hoang Anh Gia Lai Football Club" in both the professional and youth leagues, starting from Round 4 of the Night Wolf V.League 2023/2024.

Based on Article 8 of the Professional Football Regulations, the VFF has determined that HAGL's request to change its name is inappropriate.

The Vietnam Football Federation (VFF) did not agree to allow HAGL FC to change its name.

According to professional football regulations, the club's name "must not include the name and/or emblem or logo of a third party, whether that party is a commercial partner or sponsor of the club." In HAGL's case, the third party is LPBank.

Furthermore, the request to change the name was sent to the VFF "while the season is in progress." Clause 4, Article 8 of the Professional Football Regulations does not permit this. As of now, the V.League 2023/2024 season has completed 3 rounds.

In early November, HAGL confirmed the signing of a comprehensive cooperation agreement with LPBank. This marked the first time the team changed its name after 20 years competing in the V.League. This name change was partly due to the financial difficulties faced by Chairman Duc, which affected investment in the team.

The review and approval of proposals that are not currently in accordance with the regulations of the Vietnamese Professional Football Regulations fall under the authority of the VFF Executive Committee. If HAGL wishes for the VFF Executive Committee to consider changing its name as an exception, the VFF requests that HAGL submit a written request to the Executive Committee for the name change and approval of the exception, with the name change only applicable to domestic competitions.

If HAGL participates in continental tournaments, the team must comply with AFC regulations regarding naming conventions within the system. Additionally, the business entity must change its name to align with the club's new name so that the VFF has a basis for renaming the club as stipulated in Clause 1, Article 8 of the Professional Football Regulations.

The VFF's official letter stated: "HAGL Football Club has a long tradition and has made many contributions to Vietnamese football, being a leading center for youth football. Maintaining and developing the HAGL Football Club brand promotes community cohesion and strengthens the bond between fans and the team with a rich tradition."

The VFF hopes that your club will carefully consider the name change proposal, striking a balance between the interests of the sponsor and preserving the identity and traditions of a professional club.”

Mai Phuong

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