AFC suspends bidding for 2031, 2035 Asian Cup to improve coordination

29/04/2026

VANCOUVER, April 29: Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa, President of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and First Vice President of FIFA, said the decision to suspend the bidding process for the 2031 and 2035 AFC Asian Cup editions was taken to enhance coordination and efficiency among prospective host nations.

Speaking at the 36th AFC Congress in Vancouver, Canada, Sheikh Salman stressed that the move is intended to ensure greater alignment between countries interested in hosting the tournament. The meeting was attended by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, along with continental federation leaders and representatives of Asian member associations.

Earlier, Kuwait Football Association President Sheikh Ahmad Al-Yousef confirmed that Kuwait had entered the race to host the 2031 and 2035 Asian Cups, competing against bids from Australia, India, South Korea, and Japan, as well as a joint proposal from Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan—marking a significant step for Kuwaiti football.

In a statement from its headquarters in Malaysia, the AFC highlighted Sheikh Salman’s emphasis on unity and continued growth across Asian football, praising the commitment of national and regional associations.

He noted that the past year represented a turning point for the sport in Asia, driven by sustained efforts from member associations to maintain and develop football activities across the continent.

Sheikh Salman also pointed to a new phase of record investment in national associations, regional bodies, and clubs, supported by reforms included in the 2025 financial statements and the 2027 and 2028 budgets approved by the Congress, aimed at strengthening financial stability and building on current momentum.

He concluded by wishing success to nine Asian teams preparing for the upcoming World Cup, while commending the progress made by the Saudi Arabian Football Federation and the local organizing committee of the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 as preparations continue for the tournament scheduled next January.