India to Participate in FIFA ASEAN Cup

India has signed a participation agreement with FIFA for the inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup, which is scheduled for the international window from 21 September to 6 October 2026. The All India Football Federation has accepted the invitation and is awaiting further tournament details.

FIFA ASEAN Cup Format

The FIFA Council approved the FIFA ASEAN Cup on 20 March 2026. The tournament will use a two-division format, with Indonesia hosting Division 1 and Hong Kong hosting Division 2. The event is expected to include 14 teams from Southeast Asia and invited nations such as China and Hong Kong.

Prize Money and Participation Terms

Division 1 winners of the FIFA ASEAN Cup are set to receive US1 million, while Division 2 winners are set to receive US300,000. All 14 participating teams are guaranteed a participation fee of US$125,000.

FIFA International Window and Tournament Status

The FIFA ASEAN Cup will be held within official FIFA international windows. Clubs are required to release players for matches scheduled in these windows, unlike tournaments outside the FIFA calendar.

Important Facts for Exams

• Gianni Infantino announced the FIFA ASEAN Cup on 26 October 2025 after a Memorandum of Understanding at the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
• The ASEAN Championship is also known as the ASEAN Hyundai Cup 2026.
• The FIFA ASEAN Cup is a separate competition from the ASEAN Championship and follows FIFA calendar dates.
• India failed to qualify for the AFC Asian Cup 2027.