India to Play in Inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026

Overview

The All India Football Federation has signed the participation agreement with FIFA .

The tournament will be held during the official FIFA international window from 21 September to 6 October 2026.

India has accepted the invitation and is waiting for more details about the competition.

This tournament will give India an important chance to play more international football matches.

What Is the FIFA ASEAN Cup?

New International Football Competition

The FIFA ASEAN Cup is a new football tournament approved by the FIFA Council on 20 March 2026.

The competition will include:

• Southeast Asian nations

• Invited teams from Asia

• International football matches during FIFA calendar dates

The tournament is different from the ASEAN Championship.

It is a separate FIFA-supported competition.

Tournament Format

Two-Division Structure

The FIFA ASEAN Cup will follow a two-division system.

Division 1

• Hosted by Indonesia

Division 2

• Hosted by Hong Kong

A total of 14 teams are expected to participate.

Countries expected to take part include:

• India

• China

• Indonesia

• Hong Kong

The tournament will increase football cooperation in Asia.

Prize Money Details

Financial Support for Teams

The tournament offers major prize money.

Division 1 Winner

• US$1 million

Division 2 Winner

• US$300,000

Every participating team will also receive:

• US$125,000 participation fee

This support can help football development in participating countries.

Importance of FIFA International Window

Clubs Must Release Players

The tournament will be played during official FIFA international windows.