Hanoi – Cao Pendant Quang Vinh, the French-Vietnamese defender of Hanoi Police FC, officially became a Vietnamese citizen today, fulfilling a long-held dream to contribute to the Vietnam national football team. After months of coordination between Hanoi Police FC and relevant authorities, the 1997-born player received his citizenship, adopting the Vietnamese name Cao Pendant Quang Vinh. His journey reflects both personal ambition and the club’s vision to integrate players of Vietnamese descent into the national fold.
Hanoi Police FC has long championed the inclusion of talents with Vietnamese roots, such as goalkeeper Nguyen Filip and now Quang Vinh, supporting their naturalization to bolster both club and country. Quang Vinh, who joined Hanoi Police FC at the start of the 2024/25 V.League season, expressed his eagerness to don Vietnam’s colors. “Becoming a Vietnamese citizen means everything to me,” he said. “I’ve always wanted to give back to this nation—my mother’s homeland—and help elevate Vietnamese football and sports on the national team.”
Born to a Vietnamese mother and French father, Quang Vinh brings a unique blend of skill and heritage to the pitch. Since arriving at Hanoi Police FC, he has emerged as a linchpin under coach Alexandre Polking, earning praise as one of V.League’s top defenders. His versatility, physicality, and tactical nous have made him indispensable, with experts noting his potential to strengthen Vietnam’s backline if called up. “Quang Vinh is a standout talent,” a league analyst remarked. “His impact at Hanoi Police FC shows he’s ready for bigger stages.”
The naturalization process, a collaborative effort between Hanoi Police FC and Quang Vinh, underscores the club’s strategic direction. “We’re committed to nurturing players who can serve both club and country,” a Hanoi Police FC spokesperson said. “Quang Vinh’s citizenship is a milestone for us and for him.” The defender’s integration into Vietnamese football mirrors that of Nguyen Filip, the naturalized goalkeeper who has already debuted for the national team, setting a precedent Quang Vinh hopes to follow.
For Quang Vinh, the moment is deeply personal. “This isn’t just about football—it’s about identity,” he shared. “My mother’s roots run deep here, and I want to honor that by contributing to Vietnam’s success.” His ambition aligns with Vietnam’s goals under coach Kim Sang-sik, who is preparing for the Asian Cup 2027 qualifiers. A call-up could see Quang Vinh debut as early as the March 25 match against Laos, adding fresh energy to a squad aiming for a third straight Asian Cup appearance.
Hanoi Police FC celebrated the occasion with a heartfelt message: “Congratulations to Quang Vinh! We’re proud to see him take this step and look forward to his contributions.” Fans, too, are buzzing with excitement, eager to see the 27-year-old in national colors. His journey from France to Vietnam, via Hanoi Police FC, symbolizes a bridge between cultures—and a boost for a football nation on the rise.
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