Indonesia's Ambition to Host AFC Asian Cup 2031 Delayed, Here's Why

The sudden decision by the Asian Football Confederation to halt the bidding process for the Asian Cup Host AFC 2031 and 2035 changes the competition landscape. Indonesia is one of the bidders to host the most prestigious tournament in the Asian region.

Quoted from its official website, AFC stated that the policy was taken because FIFA requested the Asian Cup be held in even-numbered years.

"AFC is following that directive and will adjust the competition according to the guidelines," wrote AFC.

This move is not merely a technical adjustment, but also initiates a comprehensive evaluation phase of Asia's competition calendar, which has operated under a different pattern.

AFC confirmed they are in the process of fully reviewing the impacts resulting from this change.

Therefore, AFC decided to stop the host bidding process for the Asian Cup 2031 and 2035 to make the procedure more structured.

"We want everything to be clearer and more structured," wrote AFC.

This decision also temporarily halts the ambitions of several countries already on the candidate list.

Indonesia was previously competing with Australia, India, South Korea, Kuwait, plus a joint proposal from Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan for the 2031 edition.

AFC thanked the federations that have volunteered to host.

"Further details regarding the revised competition calendar, including information about future bidding opportunities, will be announced later," wrote AFC.

For the 2035 edition, interest came from Australia, Japan, South Korea, and Kuwait, indicating the Asian Cup's high appeal as the continent's premier Football stage.