The Hanoi Police Club (CLB Công an Hà Nội) has been banned from registering new players by FIFA, a decision that has taken the Vietnamese football community by surprise. This transfer ban, effective from September 15, 2023, will last for three consecutive transfer windows, extending until the end of the 2027-2028 season.

The club, which recently clinched the V-League title for the 2025-2026 season and secured a historic spot in the 2026-2027 AFC Champions Cup, now faces significant challenges ahead. FIFA has not disclosed the specific reasons for this sanction, leaving fans and officials speculating about potential violations of regulations.

FIFA typically imposes such bans due to various infractions, including financial disputes or breaches related to player rights. This is not the first time a Vietnamese club has encountered such penalties; for instance, Thanh Hoa FC has faced repeated sanctions from FIFA, including a recent transfer ban due to financial difficulties.

In the past, clubs like Thanh Hoa have managed to lift their transfer bans by resolving outstanding issues related to player salaries and bonuses. The Hanoi Police Club may also find a path to lift the ban if they take appropriate actions to address any underlying issues.

If the Hanoi Police Club fails to act to remove the ban, they could face significant setbacks in their development plans and squad strengthening efforts. Earlier this year, the club also received a penalty from the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), resulting in a 0-3 loss to Tampines Rovers in the AFC Champions League due to fielding an ineligible player.