Gulf Club Champions League expands to 12 clubs for 2026-27

Kazma players are preparing to start proceedings.

KUWAIT CITY, Aug 20: The Arab Gulf Cup Football Federation has approved the 12 clubs set to compete in the third edition of the Gulf Club Champions League, with the tournament scheduled to run from October 13, 2026, to April 30, 2027.

Kazma will represent Kuwait, while Al-Ettifaq and Neom will represent Saudi Arabia. The UAE will be represented by Al-Nasr and Ajman, Qatar by Al-Duhail and Qatar SC, and Iraq by Erbil and Al-Zawraa. Oman’s representative is Al-Shabab; Bahrain will be represented by Al-Riffa, and Yemen by Shab Hadramout.

The third edition will be the largest in the competition’s history, as the number of participating clubs has increased from eight to 12. The expansion aims to broaden participation among member associations and enhance the tournament’s competitive level and regional profile.

The first two editions featured one club from each participating country.

The clubs were selected in accordance with the competition regulations, taking into account domestic league results and the AFC national association club rankings for the 2026-27 season. Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar and Iraq were each awarded two places, while Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait and Yemen received one place each.

The federation has scheduled the draw for September 9.

Iraq’s Duhok won the inaugural edition, while Qatar’s Al-Rayyan claimed the second title.