The AFC General Assembly unanimously approved a package of statute amendments in an extraordinary session in Tokyo on Friday, including a move to shift the AFC Asian Cup from odd-numbered years to even-numbered years from the 2032 edition. Saudi Arabia will host the 2027 Asian Cup, which will be the last edition staged in an odd-numbered year before the change.
Amendments approved in Tokyo
The package was passed at the extraordinary session of the AFC General Assembly in Tokyo. According to the AFC statement on its official website, the amendments include changing the dates of the AFC Asian Cup from odd-numbered years to even-numbered years, starting with the 2032 edition.
Calendar change and 2032 plans
The venue for the 2032 Asian Cup is yet to be decided. The move responds to anticipated changes to the international match calendar planned by FIFA and follows consultations with the global body.
According to the AFC statement, the aim is to keep the AFC's electoral cycle in harmony with the dates of its major tournaments.
Election timetable under new arrangements
Under the new arrangements, the AFC will hold elections for its main leadership positions during 2027, in accordance with the articles specified in the statutes. The winners of those elections will not take up their roles immediately, and their term runs from 1 January 2028 until 2032.
The current officials, elected for the period from 2023 to 2027, will carry on performing their duties until the end of 2027. The AFC said further details on the upcoming elections will be announced in due course.
Sheikh Salman addresses the assembly
Addressing the General Assembly, Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa said: "the decision strengthens governance and ensures that the regulations remain clear and fit for purpose".