Tendering to host the Asian Cup 2031 gets interesting with high-stakes bidding wars, unexpected alliances and visionary pitches all competing for the love of the game, and lots of moolah.
The battle to host the 2031 AFC Asian Cup, the continent’s showpiece football event, is gathering momentum.
A diverse set of nations are officially in the fray. Bids have been submitted by India, Kuwait, Indonesia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), South Korea, Australia, and a historic joint effort by Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan representing Central Asia.
Each contender brings its unique vision and strengths to the table, signalling an intense and tightly contested selection process.
The joint bid from Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan has stirred considerable interest. It would be the first time Central Asia hosts the Asian Cup, with the bid aiming to boost regional cooperation and highlight the area’s passionate football culture.
Rustam Emomali, president of the Central Asian Football Association, described the event as more than a tournament—a celebration of unity and progress.
India’s entry into the race marks a significant push by the All-India Football Federation (AIFF) to bring Asia’s premier football event to Indian soil for the first time.
Backed by strong government support, India’s bid aims to showcase its evolving sports infrastructure and rising global profile. Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya emphasized the transformative potential of hosting such a tournament on India’s sports ecosystem and youth engagement.
Kuwait, a country with a deep footballing history and previous hosting experience, is pitching its established infrastructure and reliability.
Indonesia, known for its passionate fanbase, hopes to further energize local football culture through the tournament, while the UAE is banking on its proven track record and cutting-edge facilities.
South Korea, one of Asia’s footballing powerhouses, brings world-class stadiums and a history of hosting major events, including the 2002 FIFA World Cup.
Their bid underlines a commitment to delivering a high-quality experience for players and fans alike. Australia, co-host of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, is another formidable contender, touting its organizational expertise and modern venues.
Hosting the Asian Cup offers more than just prestige. It allows the selected country to boost tourism, upgrade sporting infrastructure, enhance its global image, and inspire the next generation of athletes. For many, it’s also about fostering national pride and leaving a legacy that extends far beyond the final whistle.
The Asian Football Confederation AFC) officially opened the bidding process on November 27, 2024. The deadline for submitting expressions of interest was March 31, 2025.
Over the coming months, the AFC will work closely with all bidders to evaluate the submitted proposals. Key factors include the quality of stadiums, training and transport facilities, accommodation availability, internal travel ease, financial viability, government support, and previous experience in hosting large-scale sports events.
The AFC will also assess each nation’s plans for media, broadcasting, sustainability, and safety.
A final decision on the host is expected at the AFC Congress in 2026.
This bidding race isn’t just about organizing a major tournament— some say it’s about shaping the future of Asian football. As nations lay out their visions, the AFC faces a difficult but exciting task: selecting a host that will not only deliver a world-class tournament but also build a meaningful legacy for football in the region.
The AFC Asian Cup is Asia’s premier international football tournament, held every four years under the banner of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC).
It serves as a crucial platform for national teams aiming to make their mark on the global football stage.
Featuring intense competition and showcasing the continent’s diverse football talent, the tournament typically hosts 24 teams, though the format has evolved over time since its inception in 1956.
