Vietnam's 10th National Games technical subcommittee has asked teams to explain withdrawals after an athlete has registered and the technical meeting for the sport has taken place. Sài Gòn Giải Phóng reported that the notice was sent to delegations as part of an effort to enforce competition discipline and the Games regulations.
The written explanation must state the reason and be confirmed and signed by the head of delegation or head coach, according to the newspaper. For injury or an inadequate state of health, a written professional assessment from a doctor or medical team designated by organisers is also required.
Documentation and possible action
The notice says an athlete who withdraws without a valid reason or supporting documents will have results in that event cancelled and related benefits removed, if any, the newspaper reported. The documentation requirement does not mean every withdrawal automatically carries a sanction.
For serious violations, fraud or unauthorised withdrawals that affect the competition's reputation, the subcommittee will report and recommend that Vietnam's sports authority consider excluding an athlete from future national-team selection or international events. That is a recommendation to the authority, not a decision already imposed on every athlete who withdraws.
Muay context and Games schedule
The newspaper said four of 13 muay finals on the last day were not held because athletes withdrew, as were some quarterfinals. It noted that the framework regulations had not previously specified constraints on withdrawals, while organisers generally require a valid explanation.
The Games list 48 official sports, 63 disciplines and 973 events. The main programme is scheduled from November 14 to December 12, although several sports have already been held or begun in early November to fit their competition calendars.