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15th SAFF Championship to be staged in 2026

April 24, 2025

Press Release
24 April 2025 | Dhaka

The South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) has remained steadfast in its mission to develop football across the South Asian region since its inception. Through organizing competitions across various categories and conducting educational programs to empower stakeholders, SAFF continues to demonstrate its unwavering commitment to the growth of our beloved sport.

In line with this vision, SAFF had initially planned to host the prestigious SAFF Championship in a home-and-away format this year. Preparations were underway to make this possible. However, after careful consideration and consultation with our Member Associations and strategic partner SportFive, it was concluded that additional arrangements are necessary to ensure the smooth and successful execution of the tournament.

As a result, SAFF has made the decision to postpone the SAFF Championship to 2026. This will allow all stakeholders and Member Associations ample time to prepare and deliver the event in a truly grand and memorable fashion.

Given that 2026 is also a FIFA World Cup year, special attention will be paid to selecting an appropriate timeline and venue for the SAFF Championship to ensure maximum participation and visibility.

We kindly ask for the understanding and support of our stakeholders, fans, media, and Member Associations as we work towards organizing a flawless and prestigious tournament in 2026.

More Announcement
February 7, 2026
India clinch SAFF U19 Women’s Championship 2026 title

Pokhara | February 7, 2026

India produced a commanding performance to defeat defending champions Bangladesh 4–0 and lift the SAFF U‑19 Women’s Championship 2026 title at the Pokhara Stadium on Saturday.

India seized control of the match from the outset, maintaining possession, stretching the Bangladeshi defence, and pressing aggressively. Their persistence paid off in the 42nd minute, when captain Julan Nongmaithem finished a smart build‑up move to open the scoring.

The second half saw India widen the gap further. A penalty converted by Elizabed Lakra in the 63rd minute doubled the lead after Alva Devi Senjam was fouled inside the box. Soon after, Pearl Fernandes, the tournament’s second-highest scorer, capitalized on a defensive error by goalkeeper Yearzan Begum to make it 3 – 0.

India sealed the emphatic victory in the 83rd minute, when substitute Anwita Raghuraman guided home a low cross to complete the 4 – 0 win.

The triumph not only crowned India as champions but also served as revenge for their earlier 0–2 defeat to Bangladesh in the round‑robin stage.

 

February 4, 2026
Vector X Announced as Official Match Ball Sponsor for SAFF Competitions

4 February 2026 | Pokhara, Nepal

The South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) is pleased to announce a landmark partnership with Vector X, naming the brand as the official match ball sponsor for all SAFF competitions from 2026 to 2028. The agreement represents a significant step toward elevating the quality, professionalism, and global visibility of South Asian football tournaments.

The announcement was made during a s ceremony held in Pokhara, Nepal, today where the SAFF U19 Women’s Championship 2026 is currently underway. SAFF General Secretary Mr. Purushottam Kattel and Vector X Brand Marketing Lead Mr. Baljinder Singh Pal jointly launched the new official match balls and handed them over to the participating teams.

SAFF General Secretary Mr. Kattel emphasized the importance of such collaborations in raising the competitive standards of football across the region. He noted that Vector X’s involvement will contribute to improved playing conditions and overall tournament experience.

The partnership will cover all major SAFF tournaments over the next three years, reinforcing the federation’s focus on growth, innovation, and athlete-centered competition.

 

February 3, 2026
Maldives Crowned Champions of the Inaugural 2026 SAFF Futsal Championship

Bangkok | 26 January 2026

Maldives claimed the title of the SAFF Futsal Championship 2026, the inaugural edition of South Asia’s premier futsal tournament, held from 14–26 January 2026 in Bangkok, Thailand.

Hosted across two Bangkok venues, Nonthaburi Stadium and Hua Mak Indoor Stadium, the championship brought together all seven SAFF member nations: Maldives, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Bhutan. As the first tournament of its kind under SAFF, the competition marked a significant leap forward for futsal development in the region.

SAFF General Secretary Purushottam Kattel noted that Thailand was chosen for its advanced futsal infrastructure and high accessibility, factors crucial for delivering a successful debut edition.

The Maldives delivered a dominant and undefeated campaign, securing six wins in six matches and clinching the title with one match remaining after a decisive 3–1 victory over Bhutan.

Across 21 matches, the tournament recorded 129 goals, showcasing the attacking flair and competitiveness of the region’s emerging futsal landscape.

 

February 3, 2026
Bangladesh Crowned Champions of the Inaugural SAFF Women’s Futsal Championship 2026

Bangkok | 25 January 2026

Bangladesh won the title of the first SAFF Women’s Futsal Championship, the first-ever edition of the regional women’s futsal tournament. Held from 13–25 January 2026 across two venues in Bangkok, the championship marked a historic moment for women’s futsal in South Asia, culminating in Bangladesh’s triumphant rise as unbeaten champions.

The tournament gathered all seven SAFF member nations – Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and Maldives – each making their debut in the newly launched women’s futsal competition. Matches were hosted across two major Bangkok arenas: Nonthaburi Stadium and Hua Mak Indoor Stadium

Bangladesh delivered a spectacular campaign, finishing the tournament undefeated with five wins and one draw, earning a total of 16 points, securing the title before other contenders could catch up. Their decisive 14–2 victory over Maldives in the final match sealed their place in history.

Tournament Statistics

  • Champions: Bangladesh (1st title)
  • Runners-up: India
  • Third place: Bhutan
  • Total Matches: 21
  • Total Goals: 146