AFC Cancels 2031 & 2035 Asia Cup Bidding – Indonesia Affected

KOMPAS.com – Indonesia’s bid to host the 2031 Asian Cup has been put on hold after the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) announced it was halting the bidding process for both the 2031 and 2035 tournaments.

AFC officials confirmed the suspension of the bidding process for the Asian Cup in both 2031 and 2035.

The decision, released in a statement on Thursday, March 19, 2026, follows notification from FIFA regarding planned changes to the international match calendar.

Baca juga: Indonesia Officially Becomes a Candidate Host for the 2031 Asian Cup

FIFA has requested that the AFC schedule its premier men’s football tournaments in even-numbered years.

The AFC stated that after “due consideration,” it has agreed to comply with FIFA’s request.

Bidding for the 2031 and 2035 Asian Cup Host Rights Canceled

the AFC has declared the bidding process for the 2031 and 2035 editions of the tournament “will be fully canceled.”

“This development will have a significant impact on the scheduling and planning of competitions,” read a statement from AFC General Secretary Datuk Seri Windsor John. “Having assessed the implications of these adjustments and considered the necessary revisions to its competition calendar, the AFC believes it is the appropriate and necessary course of action to halt the ongoing bidding process to avoid uncertainty regarding the appointment of hosts.”

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According to a report from the Japan Times, the decision could push the Asian Cup to 2032 and 2036, aligning with the years the European Championship and Copa America are held.

Indonesia Was a Candidate to Host the 2031 Asian Cup

The cancellation of the bidding process for the 2031 Asian Cup host rights directly impacts Indonesia, which had formally entered the running to host the prestigious tournament.

In February 2025, eight nations emerged as candidates, submitting six proposals to host the 2031 Asian Cup.

The countries included Australia, India, Indonesia, Kuwait, South Korea and a joint bid from Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.

Australia, Kuwait, and South Korea also submitted bids to host the 2035 edition, with Japan joining as a fresh challenger.

Saudi Arabia has already been confirmed as the host of the 2027 AFC Asian Cup. Meanwhile, Australia is currently hosting the AFC Women’s Asian Cup from March 1 to 21.

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