Australia eyes 2031 Asian Cup as Central Asian nations submit joint bid

Australia has expressed its interest in hosting the 2031 men's Asian Cup by submitting an expression of interest (EOI). In addition, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan have collaborated to present a joint bid for this prestigious continental event.

Having previously hosted and triumphed in the 2015 tournament, Australia is set to host the Women's Asian Cup next year. The EOI was submitted to the Asian Football Confederation on Monday, as confirmed by the confederation.

"Football Australia is delighted to confirm that it has submitted an Expression of Interest to host the AFC ASIAN CUP 2031 Finals," an FA spokesperson said in an emailed statement to Reuters on Tuesday.

"This important step reaffirms our commitment to advancing the beautiful game in Australia and on the international stage, while adhering fully to the bidding process as set out by the AFC."

The Asian Cup has not been previously hosted by the former Soviet republics of Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Kyrgyzstan. However, Uzbekistan is set to organize the women's tournament in 2029.

"The AFC Asian Cup is more than a football tournament, it is a celebration of unity, progress, and sporting excellence," Central Asian Football Association President Rustam Emomali said in a post on Instagram.

"Central Asia has a deep-rooted football culture and a passionate fan base, and we are confident that together, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyz Republic can deliver an exceptional tournament that leaves a lasting legacy."

Australia and the Central Asian countries have recently informed the Asian Football Confederation of their intention to host the quadrennial tournament, joining the expressions of interest submitted by the United Arab Emirates, South Korea, and Indonesia.

The upcoming men's Asian Cup is scheduled to take place in Saudi Arabia in 2027.