India in the Running to Host 2031 Asian Cup: A Chance to Shine on the International Stage
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The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has confirmed that India is among six countries vying to host the 2031 AFC Asian Cup, the continent's premier international football tournament. The bid, submitted by the All-India Football Federation (AIFF), joins those from Indonesia, Kuwait, South Korea, Australia, and a joint bid from Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. India's bid marks a significant step towards hosting the tournament for the first time. The Middle East has dominated host nation selections in recent years, with Qatar hosting the 2023 edition and Saudi Arabia set to host in 2027. The 2031 hosting rights would be a major boost for Indian football, which has faced challenges in recent times. AFC President Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa has announced plans to reveal the hosts for the 2031 and 2035 tournaments at the same meeting later this year. Several countries, including Australia, Korea, and Kuwait, have expressed interest in hosting the 2035 edition. India's bid to host the 2031 Asian Cup comes as the country considers hosting the 2036 Summer Olympics in Ahmedabad. The tournament could serve as a stepping stone for India's bid to host major global sports events. To move forward, the AIFF must submit detailed bidding documentation to the AFC, outlining timelines for evaluation, regulation, and preparation. This will require a concerted effort to ensure several venues across the country are ready to welcome international fans for the tournament.
