India Joins Six-Way Tussle for AFC Asia Cup 2031 Hosting Rights

• India has officially bid to host the AFC Asian Cup in 2031, confirmed by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC).
• India is one of six nations vying for the hosting rights, competing against Australia, Indonesia, Korea, Kuwait, and a joint bid from Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.
• The UAE Football Association has withdrawn its bid from the process.
• The All India Football Federation (AIFF) submitted the Expression of Interest (EoI) last year, with Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya assuring full government support.
• India has previously withdrawn bids for the 2023 and 2027 editions, but this time aims to boost its global stature, aligning with its goal to host the 2036 Olympics.