V-League 2026-2027 On-Field Violence: Organizers Demand Referees 'Enforce the Law', Risk of Sanctions for VAR and Main Referee

V-League 2026-2027 has been shaken by a series of violent fouls that culminated in the match between Dong Nai and Hanoi Police on September 20. In that game, Dong Nai defender Le Van Son elbowed striker Nguyen Dinh Bac, while center-back Huynh Tan Sinh twice kicked Bac from behind. Referee Le Vu Linh only showed a yellow card for the second incident, despite strong evidence that a red card was required. This came after Doan Van Hau broke Doan Ngoc Tan's leg and Ezeqiuel Santos Da Silva kicked Vo Huu Viet Hoang in the stomach in Round 2 of the season. VFF, VPF and V-League organizers responded by meeting the VFF Referee Committee, asking referees to strictly enforce the law and prevent violent acts. Former VFF referee chief Duong Vu Lam said referee Le Vu Linh clearly missed a red card. He also demanded a review of VAR officials Vo Hoai Thuong and Nguyen Thanh Son. Lam explained that if Tan Sinh is retrospectively suspended, the referee should also be temporarily removed from duty. He suggested checking upcoming referee assignments to detect hidden sanctions. The article analyzes the systemic issues behind these incidents: referees' failure to act decisively, VAR's unclear responsibility, and the need for transparent disciplinary procedures. It argues that data, consistent enforcement, and accountability are needed to restore discipline and protect players. The final message is that the next matchdays will show whether the organizers truly enforce the law and send a strong signal against violence.