The 2025/26 V-League season is expected to be more intense and competitive than ever, placing greater pressure on those tasked with keeping the game fair – the referees.

VAR helps calm tensions but challenges remain

The 2024/25 V-League season marked a new chapter in refereeing with the wider and more systematic application of VAR.

As a result, disputes over referee decisions dropped significantly compared to previous seasons. Contentious situations such as goal recognition or penalty awards became far less likely to spark prolonged arguments, as most decisions were now backed by clear images and structured procedures.

The presence of dedicated VAR assistant teams reduced the on-field referees’ stress, enabling more accurate calls. Overall, last season’s refereeing work was considered satisfactory.

However, “satisfactory” is not “flawless.” The 2024/25 season still saw incidents involving coaches’ statements, heavy team protests, and public criticism aimed at referee crews. These reactions often stemmed from incorrect or debatable decisions, or mild frustration caused by the “men in black.” Nevertheless, compared to the past, the fairness and accuracy of V-League refereeing have improved noticeably.

The new season’s mounting pressure

As the 2025/26 season begins, referees face greater challenges. The primary reason is the heightened competitiveness of the league.

Looking at the heavy investments made by clubs in the transfer market, it’s clear the upcoming season will be tense and fiercely contested. This means the referees’ role in ensuring fairness will be under even more scrutiny.

Moreover, the arrival of high-quality foreign players and Vietnamese overseas talent is expected to bring greater speed, stamina, and sophistication to the V-League. This will inevitably lead to more complex on-field duels, requiring referees to make faster and more precise decisions.

The 2025/26 season will be a significant test for Vietnamese refereeing. With thorough preparation, there is hope that the referees will fulfill their mission, making the V-League a more captivating tournament that meets the expectations of fans and experts alike.

Duy Nguyen