KUALA LUMPUR, Dec. 21 (Xinhua) -- The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has confirmed on Sunday that it will introduce an AFC League in the coming period, aiming to enhance its international football competition for AFC member association teams across the continent.
In a statement, the AFC revealed growing challenges in fully utilizing FIFA international match windows, including limited opponent availability, rising costs and logistical difficulties, which the AFC said have reduced the sporting value of international fixtures.
"These challenges have highlighted the need for a more structured, predictable and sustainable competition framework for teams and, following a comprehensive internal review and consultation process, the Confederation has decided in principle to introduce an AFC League," read the statement.
Commenting on the initiative, AFC General Secretary Windsor John said: "The AFC League represents an important step forward in our ongoing commitment to support the development of our 47 member associations."
"By introducing a structured competition platform during the FIFA international match windows, with greater calendar stability and clear sporting incentives, we aim to ensure consistent access to high-quality matches while addressing logistical and cost-related challenges faced by teams," he added.
The AFC also noted that further details regarding the competition format, timeline and implementation will be announced in due course. ■
