FIFA confirms to hold a special tournament for Southeast Asian teams

FIFA President Gianni Infantino said the tournament was established to breathe new life into football in the region, while also serving as a symbol of unity among ASEAN nations through football, the world's most popular sport .

"This will have an impact not only on Southeast Asia but also on the whole world ," he said after the signing of the memorandum of understanding on football development between ASEAN and FIFA today (October 26).

The Memorandum of Understanding was signed by Infantino and the ASEAN Secretary-General, in the presence of the leaders of all ASEAN countries. Infantino described the Memorandum of Understanding between FIFA and the 11 ASEAN member states as very special.

There will be a new tournament for 11 ASEAN teams.

"The number 11 is symbolic in the world of football because each team consists of 11 players," he emphasized. "This tournament aims to make a real impact, not only in the region but also globally. Football unites the world, and we are uniting the world together with the 11 ASEAN nations. The FIFA ASEAN Cup will be a great success in the region," he said.

However, he did not provide any details about the new tournament format or explain how it would impact the ASEAN Cup (formerly the AFF Cup). This remains a championship for 11 countries in the region. It has been held since 1994, with Vietnam as the reigning champion.

In the Memorandum of Understanding, Infantino stated that the collaboration focuses on several core principles, namely the integrity of the tournament, a safe and secure environment for matches, with the ultimate goal of developing football across the region.

"We want to ensure that football continues to thrive in a safe environment and nurture generations of young people, women, and children in the region," he said.