FIFA creates new ASEAN Cup

FIFA announces new tournament for ASEAN bloc.

The event was solemnly announced at the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur on October 26, in the presence of FIFA President Gianni Infantino, ASEAN Secretary General Kao Kim Hourn and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim – ASEAN 2025 rotating chair.

According to Mr. Infantino, the tournament was created to "breathe new life" into regional football, and at the same time become a symbol of ASEAN solidarity through the king sport . "The number 11 has a special meaning in football, and now 11 ASEAN countries will come together to form a regional team," said the FIFA President. "The tournament will not only have a strong impact on Southeast Asia, but also contribute to the glory of the region on the world football map."

The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between FIFA and ASEAN opens a new phase of cooperation, following the 2019 agreement in Bangkok. The update also officially includes Timor-Leste, the bloc’s newest member. The agreement focuses on core principles such as competition integrity, safety on the pitch, inclusive football development and youth sports education .

FIFA President hopes the new tournament will be created to "breathe new life" into regional football.

However, FIFA has not yet announced the specific format or schedule of the new ASEAN Cup, nor has it explained how the tournament will be compatible with the ASEAN Championship Cup (renamed ASEAN Hyundai Cup from 2026) - a traditional playground that is closely associated with fans in the region.

With over 700 million fans and huge growth potential, Southeast Asia is considered by FIFA to be one of the most dynamic markets on the planet. If organized properly, the FIFA ASEAN Cup could become a historic turning point to help the region affirm its position on the global football map, while also fueling the common dream of a united and strong ASEAN through football.

Currently, the Vietnam team is the reigning champion of the ASEAN Cup.

Source: https://znews.vn/fifa-tao-ra-giai-asean-cup-moi-post1597158.html