Indonesia Set to Host Star-Studded FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 as New Tournament Format Emerges

Reports about the upcoming FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 have attracted major attention after details of the tournament structure reportedly surfaced following FIFA's annual congress in Vancouver, Canada. The new competition is expected to feature 14 national teams divided into two separate divisions, creating a fresh approach to football competition in Southeast Asia. Many fans believe the format could significantly reshape regional football rivalries in the coming years.

Indonesia is rumored to have been selected as the host nation for Division 1 during the tournament's first edition. The decision highlights Indonesia's growing role in Asian football and reflects confidence in the country's ability to organize large international sporting events. Unlike previous regional tournaments, this competition is also expected to include invited countries from outside ASEAN, adding a broader international element to the event.

The participating teams are reportedly being grouped according to FIFA rankings and overall competitive strength. Division 1 is expected to contain eight teams split into two groups, with Indonesia potentially competing against Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, China, and India. The inclusion of China and India is seen as an attempt to increase the tournament's quality and global appeal.

Meanwhile, Hong Kong is projected to host Division 2, which may include Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, Brunei Darussalam, and Timor Leste. Even though the tournament will use a two-division structure, reports suggest that promotion and relegation will not yet be introduced during the inaugural edition. Organizers appear focused on establishing stability before expanding the system further in future seasons.

The competition is expected to run during the FIFA Matchday window from September 21 until October 6, 2026, allowing clubs to release players without heavily disrupting domestic schedules. Another major difference from the traditional AFF Cup format is the removal of semifinal rounds, with group winners advancing directly to the final. In addition, the tournament is rumored to offer a prize of one million US dollars for the Division 1 champion, while official confirmation regarding regulations and scheduling is still being awaited from FIFA.