Officials from Japan and South Korea have revealed considerations for a joint bid to host the 2035 men's Asian Cup, building on their 2002 World Cup co-hosting success. The Korea Football Association sees it as one possible strategy, while the Japan Football Association is conducting studies, though no firm decisions have been made.
On Friday, officials from Japan and South Korea stated they are considering a joint bid to co-host the 2035 men's Asian Cup, marking another collaboration following their historic co-hosting of the 2002 World Cup across 20 venues in Asia's first such event.
A Korea Football Association official remarked that the country's soccer leaders are exploring various options, with co-hosting with Japan described as 'one possible strategy.' The official added, 'At this stage joint hosting is not impossible,' emphasizing that plans remain in early stages and require approval from both governments.
The Japan Football Association (JFA) confirmed it is 'conducting various studies' on a potential bid. A JFA official said, 'We are considering bidding for the Asian Cup and it is true that we have discussed co-hosting with South Korea and other countries as one option.' However, 'nothing concrete has been decided yet and we will let you know when we officially launch our bid.'
The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) plans to announce hosts for both the 2031 and 2035 Asian Cups simultaneously in 2027. South Korea last hosted the tournament in 1960, while Japan did so in 1992. Saudi Arabia will host the next edition in 2027.
This development highlights potential for renewed sports ties between the two nations, though further details await confirmation.