SAFF Championship 2026 dates announced

South Asia’s biggest tournament will take place in November 2026

The South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) have officially announced the date for the SAFF Championship 2026, which will be held from November 4 to November 17. The tournament will start five days before the FIFA International window, which runs from November 9 to November 17. The official draw ceremony is scheduled to take place in Thimphu, Bhutan on August 1.

The SAFF Championship 2026 hosted by Bangladesh was initially scheduled for September 2026 but had to be rescheduled as India are taking part in the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 during the same window.

However, questions linger over India’s participation in the tournament, as two more friendlies against New Zealand are scheduled during the November window for the Blue Tigers.

Nepal’s participation is also subject to the All Nepal Football Federation (ANFA) obtaining clearance from FIFA, as it is currently banned by the global football body.

Bangladesh to host the 15th edition of SAFF Championship

Bangladesh will host the 15th edition of the SAFF Championship 2026. This is the fourth time that Bangladesh will be hosting the SAFF Championship with the tournament scheduled to be played between November 4 to November 17.

The official logo unveiling will take place in Dhaka on July 25th, 2026, with the official draw scheduled to take place in Thimphu, Bhutan on August 1st, 2026.

South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) General Secretary Purushottam Kattel confirmed the venue and the date sharing his excitement building up to the tournament.

“We are absolutely delighted to announce the dates and venue for the SAFF Championship 2026. This tournament holds a special place in our hearts, having created countless memorable moments for football fans across the region over the years.”

“With the FIFA World Cup 2026 just concluded, this announcement comes at an exciting time for football enthusiasts across South Asia. Bangladesh’s confirmation as the host is particularly exciting in light of the rapidly growing interest in football across the country. We look forward to Bangladesh delivering a grand and successful event that will leave a lasting impression on players and fans alike”

“In the weeks and months ahead, we will be unveiling a range of activities, updates, and events related to the championship. We sincerely hope our fans share in our excitement as we begin the countdown to another unforgettable edition of the tournament.” he further added.

India’s participation still remain doubtful

While the dates for SAFF Championship 2026 are announced, the participation of the Indian men’s senior team still remains in doubt.

The Blue Tigers are scheduled to play two friendlies against FIFA World Cup 2026 participants New Zealand on November 12th and November 15th away from home in New Zealand.

This creates major doubt on whether the Blue Tigers will play the SAFF Championship 2026 which is scheduled during the same window or it will be the U-23 team which takes part in the SAFF Championship 2026 Bangladesh.

Opportunities to play against high-quality FIFA World Cup playing sides like New Zealand are limited and cannot be guaranteed during every FIFA international window. Whether India opts to field their senior team or an alternate squad is a question which will only be answered in the near future.

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