Vietnam Boxing Faces Uncertainty as President Remains Abroad
The Vietnam Boxing Federation (VBF) is currently navigating a period of uncertainty as its president, Luu Tu Bao, remains unavailable. As of March 16, 2026, the VBF has not received any official documentation authorizing the operation of its activities from Mr. Bao, according to a report by Thanh Nien newspaper.
Leadership Void and Temporary Authority
Mr. Bao departed for the United States in February 2025, citing family and personal reasons. Communication with him has been severed for the past six months. In September 2025, the VBF Executive Committee announced plans to delegate operational control to Nguyen Duy Hung, Vice President and General Secretary, until March 31, 2026. But, as of today, March 17, 2026, this delegation has not been formalized with the necessary paperwork.
The VBF leadership has stated they must wait until the end of this period before proceeding with the next steps, including convening an extraordinary congress to elect a new president. Earlier this year, representatives from the VBF Executive Committee met with officials from the Vietnam Sports Administration to discuss matters related to Mr. Bao’s situation.
Legal Challenges in the United States
Recent reports indicate that Mr. Luu Tu Bao is facing legal issues in the United States. According to Thanh Nien, a California Northern District Federal Court determined approximately one month ago that he is eligible for extradition to Australia at the request of the Australian government, related to drug trafficking charges. The court has temporarily suspended the extradition order to allow the defendant to exercise their right to appeal. This case is still in the administrative review stage and no conviction has been made; Mr. Bao is presumed innocent until a final verdict is reached in Australian jurisdiction.
Impact on Vietnamese Boxing Development
Continued Operations Despite Absence
Despite the president’s absence, VBF officials report that all activities are proceeding smoothly. In January 2026, the VBF released regulations for professional boxing activities in Vietnam, aiming to standardize the organization, operation, and coordination of professional boxing. These regulations are intended to support the systematic and efficient participation of athletes, coaches, referees, clubs, and related organizations in competitions, tournaments, and professional development.
Focus on International Competition
The VBF is actively organizing national tournaments to identify and select talent within the Vietnamese boxing community. Looking ahead to 2026, the VBF plans to collaborate with the Vietnam Sports Administration to prepare teams for major international events, most notably the 20th Asian Games (ASIAD 20) in Japan this September.
Notable athletes like Lu Diem Quynh (ASIAD Women’s 75kg bronze medalist), Ha Thi Linh (SEA Games Women’s 63kg gold medalist), and Bui Phuoc Tung (SEA Games Men’s 71kg gold medalist) are expected to compete. Younger boxers, including Nguyen Trong Tien, Nguyen Minh Triet (men), Tam Du, Mai Anh, Quynh Anh, Nguyen Thi Huyen, Lan Anh, and Thuy Nhi (women), are too receiving investment for the Youth Olympic qualifying event in Senegal this October.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the current status of Luu Tu Bao?
A: Mr. Bao is currently in the United States facing legal proceedings related to drug trafficking charges, as requested by the Australian government.
Q: Who is currently in charge of the VBF?
A: Nguyen Duy Hung, Vice President and General Secretary, is currently managing the VBF’s operations, pending formal delegation of authority from Mr. Bao.
Q: Will the VBF be able to participate in ASIAD 20?
A: Yes, the VBF is actively preparing teams to compete in the boxing events at ASIAD 20 in Japan.
Q: What regulations has the VBF recently implemented?
A: The VBF released regulations for professional boxing activities in Vietnam in January 2026 to standardize the sport’s organization and development.
Did you know? The VBF is actively working to integrate Vietnamese boxing more closely with the regional and international boxing community.
Stay updated on the latest developments in Vietnamese boxing by exploring more articles on our site. Subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive insights and updates.
