Football Australia is delighted to confirm that the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Women's Football Committee has recommended Australia as the host association for the 2026 edition of the AFC Women's Asian Cup™.
While certain formalities of the bidding process are in the midst of being finalised, the Committee has mandated the AFC Administration to confirm the award of the Hosting Rights once the evaluation of remaining requirements are finalised.
The decision was made at the committee's second meeting held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, on Friday 15 March on the eve of the AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup™ Uzbekistan 2024 Final. This recommendation is also subject to ratification by the AFC Executive Committee before taking effect.
The recommendation recognises Australia's strong commitment to women's football and its ability to provide an exceptional platform for the promotion and growth of the game in Asia. This decision comes on the heels of the successful FIFA Women's World Cup™ co-hosted by Australia last year, which set new benchmarks for the sport and showcased the strength and popularity of women's football in the region.
Football Australia is working diligently to satisfy the remaining requirements, and working collaboratively with all levels of Government, including the Federal Government, to secure the necessary funding and support to bring this vision to life.
James Johnson, CEO of Football Australia, shared his excitement about the recommendation: "We are thrilled to be recommended as the host for the AFC Women's Asian Cup™ 2026. This recognition reflects the tireless efforts and commitment of everyone involved in women's football throughout Australia. We are committed to working with the AFC to satisfy the remaining requirements and delivering an outstanding tournament that will further enhance the women's game and create a lasting legacy for future generations.
"The FIFA Women's World Cup™ had a profound impact, not just on women's football or women's sports generally, but also on broader Australian society. It put Australia on the global football map and cemented our reputation as an excellent host of global football competitions. We are confident that hosting another global event like the AFC Women's Asian Cup™ will have a similarly positive impact for Australians, the AFC and for women's football in Asia."
Chairperson of the AFC Women's Football Committee, Ms. Keomany said: "The FIFA Women's World Cup™ that was co-hosted in Australia last year set new benchmarks and is widely regarded as the best edition in history, showcasing once again the strength of women's football in Asia.
"Australia presents the opportunities to build on the commercial appeal of the competition and engage with more fans than ever before, so I am confident that Football Australia will stage a memorable spectacle that will not only elevate the women's game but also set the standard for future editions of the AFC Women's Asian Cup™."
Australia's bid was the only remaining submission following the withdrawals of Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Uzbekistan, marking a significant milestone as the nation is set to host the women's Continental showpiece for the second time in history, two decades after the 2006 tournament in Adelaide.
Australia's history of successfully hosting major sporting events, combined with the nation's love for football, positions it as an ideal location for the AFC Women's Asian Cup™ 2026 which will also have a profound effect on inspiring the next generation of female athletes.
Football Australia is excited to work closely with the AFC, the Federal and State Governments, and all stakeholders to confirm the hosting rights of the AFC Women's Asian Cup™ 2026. The tournament promises to be a celebration of women's football, showcasing the best talent from across the Continent and providing a platform for the continued growth of the sport.
Football Australia eagerly awaits confirmation from the AFC Administration and subsequent ratification from the AFC Executive Committee and looks forward to the ongoing discussions with Federal and State Governments whilst remaining dedicated to promoting and developing women's football both domestically and across the Asian continent.
