Doha: Saudi Arabia has been confirmed as the host of the next three editions of the AFC Champions League Elite (ACL) finals after the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Executive Committee approved the country’s provisional hosting rights yesterday.
Saudi Arabia has staged the first two editions of the revamped finals format, in which the quarter-finals, semi-finals and final are played at a centralised venue, following the restructuring of Asia’s premier club competition ahead of the 2024-25 season.
Jeddah club Al Ahli lifted the title on both occasions the city hosted the finals.
The Saudi side defeated Japan’s Kawasaki Frontale in the 2025 final before overcoming Machida Zelvia in May to successfully defend the crown.
The upcoming edition of the AFC Champions League Elite will feature an expanded league phase, with the number of participating teams increasing from 24 to 32.
The qualifying rounds are scheduled to begin on August 11, while the league phase draw will be held in Kuala Lumpur on August 18.
The expanded competition will kick off on September 14, bringing together league champions and leading clubs from across Asia.
The AFC also announce that Japan will host the 2028 AFC U23 Asian Cup, which will also serve as Asia’s qualifying tournament for the men’s football competition at the 2028 Olympic Games.
The top two finishers will qualify directly for the 2028 Olympic men’s football tournament.
AFC also confirmed that Uzbekistan will host the 2027 AFC U17 Asian Cup, while Saudi Arabia will stage the 2029 edition.
