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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.

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December 2, 2025
SAFF Social Responsibility Seminar Concludes with Renewed Commitment to Societal Betterment

2 December 2025 | Dhaka

The SAFF Social Responsibility Seminar concluded in Dhaka on Monday with active participation from all seven member associations of the federation.

During the seminar, each member association presented the progress made in their respective social responsibility initiatives and pledged to maintain the momentum in serving society through the power of football.

The event was supported by the Asian Football Confederation’s (AFC) Social Responsibility Department. Head of Unit Neil Sta Maria and Irene Juliet, Safeguarding Lead at the AFC, provided valuable insights on the AFC’s Dream Asia Foundation, outlining the roles and responsibilities of the social responsibility unit. They also shared practical guidance on project implementation, funding applications, and strategies for delivering impactful programs.

Participants expressed their appreciation for the knowledge shared over the two-day seminar. The enthusiasm, eagerness to learn, and strong commitment to societal development reaffirmed SAFF’s belief that social responsibility will continue to thrive within the region.

Attending the seminar as the special guest during the closing ceremony, Ms. Mahfuza Akhter Kiron, Executive Member of the Asian Football Confederation and the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF), who also heads the BFF Women’s Wing, emphasized that social responsibility should not be viewed as a side project or an additional task. Instead, she described it as a meaningful opportunity to contribute to the betterment of society through football.

November 18, 2025
South Asian Football Federation Unveils New Logo, Embracing Strength in Unity

18 Nov. 2025 | Dhaka

The South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) proudly unveiled its new logo during the Executive Committee Meeting held at the federation’s headquarters in Dhaka. The unveiling was done by SAFF President Kazi Md. Salahuddin, marking a significant milestone in the federation’s journey toward modernizing its brand identity.

“We are thrilled to unveil the new logo of the federation. It has been crafted with great care and boldly represents our identity in the global footballing arena,” said Kazi Md. Salahuddin, President of SAFF. “This design reflects our unwavering commitment to developing football across the region and embodies our motto: Strength in Unity. We sincerely hope all our stakeholders will appreciate and embrace this new visual identity.”

The refreshed branding aligns with global trends in football and enhances SAFF’s market presence through improved visual appeal and professionalism.

The new logo features a bold abbreviation of the South Asian Football Federation, symbolizing the strength and unity of South Asia, a region that is home to nearly 25 percent of the world’s population. It captures the passion and fervor that South Asians share for the beautiful game.

The design was created by Supun D. Rajapaksa from the Football Federation of Sri Lanka. SAFF had invited creative concepts from designers across all seven member associations, and Rajapaksa’s concept was unanimously selected by the Marketing and Communications Committee and endorsed by the Executive Committee.

To Download the Logos

October 5, 2025
SAFF to Launch Inaugural Futsal Championship in January 2026

Press Release

5 October 2025 | Dhaka

In a landmark move to promote futsal across South Asia, the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) is set to host its first-ever SAFF Futsal Championship for both men and women from January 13–26, 2026, in Thailand.

The championship will be accompanied by capacity-building courses for coaches and referees, aimed at strengthening the foundation of futsal in the region. Despite its global popularity, futsal remains largely underdeveloped in South Asia, and SAFF is committed to changing that.

“As members of FIFA, all national associations are expected to actively participate in futsal and beach soccer, alongside association football. Unfortunately, South Asia has lagged behind in these areas,” said SAFF General Secretary Purushottam Kattel.

“We’ve also observed a significant shortage of officials involved in futsal compared to other regions. That’s why it’s crucial for us to initiate futsal development in our region. The Executive Committee has already approved the decision, and we’re grateful for the support from both FIFA and the AFC for this historic event.”

SAFF views this championship as a vital step toward nurturing futsal in South Asia. With the sport gaining popularity among youth in recent years, it is essential to harness its potential through structured competitions and training programs. This initiative aims to foster genuine interest and engagement among stakeholders.

Further details about the championship will be shared with stakeholders in due course.

September 27, 2025
India Clinches SAFF U-17 Championship Title

27 Sept. 2025 (Colombo)

The Indian U-17 men’s national football team emerged victorious at the 2025 SAFF U-17 Championship, defeating Bangladesh in a dramatic final held at the Racecourse International Stadium in Colombo. The match ended 2-2 in regulation time, with India sealing the win 4-1 in a tense penalty shootout.

Match Highlights:

  • Early Breakthrough: India took the lead in the 3rd minute through Dallamuon Gangte, setting the tone for an aggressive start.
  • Bangladesh Response: MD Manik equalized in the 24th minute, showcasing Bangladesh’s resilience.
  • India Strikes Again: Azlaan Shah KH restored India’s lead in the 37th minute with a composed finish.
  • Stoppage-Time Drama: Bangladesh forced extra time with a last-gasp goal from Ihsan Habib Riduan in the 97th minute.
  • Penalty Shootout Heroics: India converted all four penalties with precision, while goalkeeper Manashjyoti Baruah made a crucial save to ensure victory.

Road to Glory:

  • Group Stage: Unbeaten run with dominant performances.
  • Semi-Final: A convincing 3-0 win over Nepal.
  • Final: A nerve-wracking but triumphant shootout against Bangladesh.

Coach’s Statement:

“This team showed incredible heart and maturity. Winning both the U-17 and U-19 SAFF titles this year is a testament to the strength of our youth development system,” said Bibiano Fernandes, Head Coach of the Indian U-17 team.