Football

HÀ NỘI — Southeast Asian football is set for a fresh kick forward as FIFA confirms the timing of the inaugural 2026 FIFA ASEAN Cup, bringing together all 11 member nations in a landmark tournament.

The first FIFA ASEAN Cup will be held in September – October 2026. This presents a strong opportunity for Việt Nam to win an official FIFA tournament and improve their world ranking. However, Southeast Asian teams may face a congested schedule, with two consecutive regional tournaments in 2026.

Before the FIFA ASEAN Cup, teams will compete in the ASEAN Hyundai Cup from July 24 to August 26. Organised by the ASEAN Football Federation (AFF), this biennial tournament is the region’s premier competition and will be held for the 16th time. In the Hyundai Cup draw, Singapore are placed in Group A with defending champions Việt Nam, Indonesia, Cambodia and either Timor-Leste or Brunei. Thailand are in Group B alongside Malaysia, the Philippines, Myanmar and Laos.

Under FIFA’s new 2026 calendar, the September – October international window will be combined into a single three-week period (September 21–October 6), during which each team may play up to four matches. This is the scheduled window for the FIFA ASEAN Cup.

The Việt Nam Football Federation says the new tournament will raise the profile of Southeast Asian football and increase regional competitiveness. As defending ASEAN champions, Việt Nam are widely expected to be a top contender. Because the FIFA ASEAN Cup falls on FIFA international match dates, its matches will carry more ranking points than previous ASEAN Cup matches held outside FIFA windows - giving Việt Nam, coached by Kim Sang-sik, an important chance to improve their FIFA ranking. Additionally, as Southeast Asian champions, Việt Nam could claim an official FIFA title.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino says the FIFA ASEAN Cup will breathe new life into regional football and symbolise ASEAN solidarity through sport.

“The tournament will not only have a strong impact on Southeast Asia, but will also contribute to bringing glory to the region on the world football map,” Infantino said.

With more than 700 million fans and significant growth potential, Southeast Asia is one of FIFA’s most dynamic markets. If well organised, the FIFA ASEAN Cup could become a historic turning point for the region’s place in world football. — VNS