Asia Cup 2031 Host Selection Cancelled: Indonesia Among Affected Countries

Indonesia was among the nations that submitted a bid to host the 2031 Asia Cup. However, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has officially canceled the bidding process for both the 2031 and 2035 tournaments. The decision follows guidance from FIFA to adjust international football calendars, moving major men’s tournaments to even-numbered years to better align with other global competitions.

The cancellation was described as a necessary step to prevent uncertainty in tournament planning and scheduling. AFC emphasized that the move is part of a broader review of its competition calendar, ensuring that adjustments are carefully considered before final decisions are made. This change will affect how future Asia Cup editions are organized and hosted.

The new schedule is likely to shift the tournaments to 2032 and 2036, coinciding with Euro and Copa America events. The adjustment aims to streamline the international football calendar and avoid conflicts with other major competitions, ensuring maximum visibility and participation for teams across Asia.

The halted bidding process directly impacts Indonesia, which had expressed interest in hosting the 2031 Asia Cup. In February 2025, eight countries submitted bids, with six formal proposals for hosting, including Australia, India, Indonesia, Kuwait, South Korea, and a joint bid from Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. Three nations also expressed interest in hosting the 2035 edition, with Japan joining the list of contenders.

Saudi Arabia has already been confirmed as the host of the 2027 Asia Cup, while the cancellation of the 2031 and 2035 bidding leaves other potential hosts, including Indonesia, waiting for further clarification. The AFC’s move reflects both strategic alignment with FIFA directives and the complexities of international tournament planning.