Asian Cup: Uzbekistan to become first Central Asian host in 2029 | OneFootball

In a historic announcement, the AFC Asian Cup could be hosted by a Central Asian nation for the first time. Uzbekistan had the excitement of being confirmed as the recommended choice in their bid to host the illustrious competition confirmed by the AFC chairperson, Kanya Keomany.

The AFC also locked in Australia as the recommended choice for the 2026 edition of the tournament. Australia previously, and successfully, hosted the tournament in 2006 in Adelaide. The final choice for the Australasian nation is all but confirmed after Saudi Arabia and Jordan pulled their bids — alongside Uzbekistan, who turned their focus to the 2029 bid.

Fans take their seats before the 2024 AFC Asian Cup Final between Jordan and Qatar on February 10. (Photo by HECTOR RETAMAL/AFP via Getty Images)

The AFC’s announcements mean that Uzbekistan will be the first Central Asian nation to host. Speaking on the levity of the fact, Keomany stated the impact will be felt throughout the region.

“In 2022, India were the first South Asian host in more than 40 years, and in 2018, Jordan was the first ever West Asian host in history.” Women’s football in India has developed in strides since the extra interest of hosting the games. India had reached heights of ranking 53rd in the world FIFA charts in December 2020

“Now, in 2029, we have the opportunity to further realise our ambitions to grow and expand the reach of the women’s game all across the Continent, which will ultimately enhance the value proposition of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup in the decades to come.”

The AFC administration team is expected to finalise the announcements and confirmation in due course.

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