The Best Player Award is on display.

RIYADH, Oct 12: The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has announced that Riyadh will host the 2025 AFC annual awards ceremony this Thursday, bringing together top soccer personalities and sports figures from across Asia to celebrate the achievements of players during the 2024–2025 season.

The ceremony will be held at the King Fahd Cultural Center, marking the first time that Saudi Arabia hosts this prestigious continental event. Now in its 29th edition, the ceremony will honor excellence in 20 award categories, recognizing standout performances and contributions to Asian football.

AFC President and FIFA First Vice President Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa expressed his pride in holding the event in Riyadh, highlighting that it reflects Saudi Arabia’s growing influence and leadership in both Asian and global football.

He noted that Saudi Arabia has become a key hub for international football in recent years, thanks to the strong support of its leadership for sports development. Sheikh Salman also praised the Saudi Arabian Football Federation for its efforts in ensuring the success of the ceremony and for showcasing the prestige and progress of Asian football.

The AFC President pointed out that the confederation has undertaken strategic reforms in recent years to strengthen its identity and competitions. He added that this year’s awards ceremony will reflect this direction through a fresh identity that embodies innovation and growth in Asian football.

He also revealed that all trophies and medals have been redesigned, including the “Diamond of Asia”, the continent’s highest honor, which will be awarded to distinguished recipients — a symbol of Asian football’s rising stature and commitment to excellence.

Sheikh Salman congratulated all nominees, affirming that the AFC looks forward to celebrating the men and women whose achievements continue to inspire future generations, while commending the dedication of national and regional federations to advancing football across Asia.