Asian Cup to Return to Even-Numbered Years From 2032

The Asian Football Confederation has decided to stage the Asian Cup in even-numbered years from 2032, marking a return to that scheduling pattern after 25 years.

The decision follows an amendment to the confederation’s statutes, establishing the basis for the change to the tournament calendar.

The revised schedule is intended to align the Asian Cup with the confederation’s electoral cycle, bringing the timing of its flagship national-team competition into step with its governance timetable.

The move also takes account of anticipated changes to the international football calendar, as the confederation adjusts its tournament planning for the years ahead.