The Vietnam Football Federation (VFF) activates a clause to retain coach Kim Sang-sik until 2027.
Following the historic treble in 2025, coach Kim Sang-sik's contract with the VFF was automatically extended, ensuring stability for the goal of reaching a higher level at the 2027 Asian Cup.
Coach Kim Sang-sik's contract has been automatically extended until 2027.
The Vietnam Football Federation (VFF) has officially confirmed that coach Kim Sang-sik's contract has been automatically extended until February 2027. This decision was triggered after he successfully achieved his performance targets in 2025, dispelling all speculation about the future of the South Korean strategist.
VFF's strategic terms and vision
The contract extension was not based on new negotiations but on a performance-based clause already included in the contract signed in May 2024. Accordingly, the contract will automatically be extended if the team achieves specific results in regional tournaments. This mechanism, successfully implemented under coach Park Hang-seo, demonstrates the long-term vision and professionalism of the VFF.
By linking results with benefits, the VFF not only creates strong motivation for the coaching staff but also ensures the necessary stability and continuity for the national teams, helping the entire team focus on bigger goals.
A historic treble and a profitable investment.
2025 went down in Vietnamese football history with a treble of titles. The pinnacle was the gold medal at the 33rd SEA Games, won by the Vietnam U22 team right on Thai soil. This success is the clearest evidence of the talent of coach Kim Sang-sik, who revived the team from a difficult period.
Looking back to when Mr. Kim took office with a salary of around $22,000 per month, many were skeptical. However, what he delivered – not only titles but also a resurgence of confidence and a generation of talented young players – has turned the VFF's investment into one of the most effective deals in history.
Towards the 2027 Asian Cup: A springboard from stability.
Determining the future of the head coach until 2027 is crucial. After conquering regional titles, the next goal for Vietnamese football is to reach continental level, with a focus on the 2026 U23 Asian Championship and the 2027 Asian Cup.
Stability on the coaching bench is the foundation for building a sustainable development roadmap. Mr. Kim will have enough time and confidence to implement long-term plans, upgrade the squad with a core of young players who recently shone at the SEA Games, and prepare for confrontations with top Asian rivals.
Activating the contract extension clause is not only a well-deserved reward for coach Kim Sang-sik but also a reaffirmation of Vietnam's great ambitions for football in the coming period.
