Lao Football Federation (LFF) has formally referred a suspected match-fixing scandal involving the Laos national team to the Laos police, calling for an investigation into possible irregularities surrounding the team’s matches in the 2026 ASEAN Hyundai Cup.
According to an official letter dated 7 August 2026, the LFF submitted the matter to the authorities after concerns were raised over the possibility of match manipulation involving members of the national team.
The federation’s document specifically refers to Laos’ participation in the 2026 ASEAN Hyundai Cup and lists matches played on 25 July, 28 July, 1 August and 4 August 2026 as part of the matter requiring investigation.
Laos national team lost all four of their group stage matches in Group B of the ASEAN Hyundai Cup 2026, losing to Thailand 0-5, Malaysia 0-4, the Philippines 1-4, and Myanmar 2-7.
The LFF cited relevant provisions of Lao law concerning sports-related offences and called on the authorities to investigate the circumstances surrounding the alleged incidents, including the conduct of players and other individuals who may have been involved.
The move comes amid growing scrutiny over the integrity of several matches involving the Laos national team, including their encounter against Malaysia.
However, the official document does not establish that any player has been found guilty of match-fixing. Instead, the federation is asking the authorities to investigate the allegations and determine whether any criminal or disciplinary offences have occurred.
The LFF also indicated that its own internal review had identified matters serious enough to warrant referral to law enforcement authorities.
The investigation could potentially extend beyond a single match, with the federation’s letter referencing the Laos national team’s matches during the 2026 ASEAN Hyundai Cup period.
The decision represents a significant step by the Lao football authorities as the federation seeks to protect the integrity of the national team and the competition.
Match-fixing allegations are among the most serious issues in football, particularly when they involve international matches. Any proven attempt to deliberately influence a match result or events within a game could lead to severe sporting and legal consequences.
Credit Photo : LFF
