Saudi Arabia confirmed to host Asian Champions League Elite finals | Football News
Saudi Arabia to Host Next Three Asian Champions League Elite Finals
Published July 30, 2026
Saudi Arabia has been confirmed as the host for the next three editions of the Asian Champions League Elite finals, following a decision by the Asian Football Confederation’s executive committee to make the country’s provisional hosting rights permanent.
The nation previously held the event’s first two editions, where matches were centralized to facilitate the quarterfinals, semifinals, and finals, starting from the tournament’s restructuring before the 2024/2025 season.
Jeddah-based club Al-Ahli secured victories in both hosted finals, defeating Japan’s Kawasaki Frontale in 2025 and Machida Zelvia in May of this year.
The upcoming tournament will feature an expanded league phase, increasing participation from 24 to 32 teams. Qualifying rounds are set to begin on August 11, with the league phase draw scheduled for August 18 in Kuala Lumpur. Matches will commence on September 14.
Al-Ahli completed a successful title defense with a 1-0 win after extra time against Machida Zelvia last year. Meanwhile, fellow Saudi Pro League team Al-Hilal holds the record for the most championships in the competition, boasting four titles from nine final appearances.
In addition, Japan’s Urawa Red Diamonds and South Korea’s Pohang Steelers have each won the trophy twice, with both clubs having appeared in the finals three times.
