Indonesia Bids to Host AFC Asian Cup 2031: Faces Competition from 5 Nations

Indonesia is vying to host the 2031 Asian Cup, according to an announcement made today, Wednesday, February 4, 2026, by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC).

A Competitive Bid

The nation faces competition from five other bidders: Australia, India, Korea South, Kuwait, and a joint bid from Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. The AFC will now coordinate with each candidate regarding the necessary bidding documents.

Did You Know? Indonesia last hosted the Asian Cup in 2007, but did so in conjunction with three other Southeast Asian nations.

All potential host nations have until June 30, 2026, to submit their complete bid files. Indonesia initially submitted its bid for the single-host opportunity in December 2024.

Previous Hosting Experience

Erick Thohir, Chairman of the Football Association of Indonesia (PSSI), stated that the country’s successful hosting of the FIFA U-17 World Cup in 2023, along with its FIFA-standard stadiums, strengthens its candidacy. The proposal includes the use of Stadion Gelora Bung Karno (Jakarta), Jakarta International Stadium (Jakarta), Stadion Gelora Bung Tomo (Surabaya), and Stadion Utama Sumatra Utara (Medan).

Expert Insight: Indonesia’s pursuit of a single-host opportunity for the 2031 Asian Cup represents a significant ambition for the nation’s football infrastructure and its role in the broader Asian sporting landscape. Successfully securing the tournament could further elevate the country’s profile and contribute to the growth of the sport domestically.

Southeast Asia last hosted the Asian Cup in 2007 with a shared hosting model. Thailand (1972) and Singapore (1984) are the only ASEAN countries to have hosted the tournament as a single host.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did Indonesia submit its bid?

Indonesia submitted its bid to be the sole host of the 2031 Asian Cup in December 2024.

Which stadiums are included in Indonesia’s bid?

The proposed stadiums are Stadion Gelora Bung Karno (Jakarta), Jakarta International Stadium (Jakarta), Stadion Gelora Bung Tomo (Surabaya), and Stadion Utama Sumatra Utara (Medan).

Who else is bidding to host the 2031 Asian Cup?

Australia, India, Korea South, Kuwait, and a joint bid from Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan are also competing to host the tournament.

What impact could winning the bid have on the future of football in Indonesia?