7 candidates confirmed for hosting the 2031 AFC Asian Cup

Uzbekistan also participates with a joint bid

The process of selecting the host country for one of Asian football's most prestigious tournaments — the 2031 AFC Asian Cup — has officially begun. At the 6th meeting of the AFC Executive Committee held in Kuala Lumpur, all candidate names were announced.

Historic record: 7 bidders, 1 tournament

According to AFC President Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa, this year's level of interest marks a historical record for the tournament. He noted that such commitment and initiative from member associations enhances the prestige of the Asian Cup.

Countries that submitted bids for the 2031 Asian Cup:
- Australia
- India
- Indonesia
- Republic of Korea
- Kuwait
- United Arab Emirates
- Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan (joint bid)

Uzbekistan — part of a joint hosting effort

It is pleasing to note that Uzbekistan has submitted a joint bid to host the tournament together with Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan. This initiative is expected to raise the international profile of football in Uzbekistan.

What happens next?

The AFC will now begin the process of preparing the required documentation with all candidate associations. The deadline for submitting all required documents is March 31, 2025.

Additional information:
At the same meeting, the AFC also approved decisions of other committees — including the Organizing, Finance, Competitions, and Professional Football Committees.

For fans:
Do you think there is a real chance for Uzbekistan, alongside Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan, to host the Asian Cup?

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