Indonesia to host inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026

Indonesia is preparing to host the inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026, scheduled from September 25 to October 5. To build public enthusiasm, a parade featuring the tournament trophy and a giant ball was held in Jakarta, involving PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir and Jakarta Governor Pramono Anung.

Tournament details include a two-division format. Indonesia will host Division 1 matches at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, competing in Group A against Singapore, Malaysia, and Bangladesh. Group B, featuring Thailand, Vietnam, Philippines, and Pakistan, will be held at Si Jalak Harupat Stadium in Bandung. FIFA President Gianni Infantino noted the tournament is expected to drive regional football development.

Team preparations are underway across the region. Thailand has announced a 55-player preliminary squad, including stars like Chanathip Songkrasin and Teerasil Dangda, despite injuries to key players Suphanat Mueanta and Thanawat Suengchitthawon. Meanwhile, Malaysia received confirmation from FIFA that players Bergson da Silva and Brad Tapp are eligible to represent the national team.

Regarding competition rules, FIFA has established specific tie-breaking criteria. If teams are level on points, head-to-head results, goal difference, and goals scored, the latest FIFA World Ranking will serve as the final deciding factor. This rule could potentially favor Thailand, which currently holds a higher ranking than Vietnam.