By Sachit Subba • Football • Jul 21, 2026 13:51 PM • 83 views
South Asian football’s premier showpiece is heading back to Dhaka as Bangladesh officially secures hosting rights for the SAFF Championship 2026, running from November 4 to 17.
The South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) confirmed the schedule for the regional spectacle, gathering every member association under one banner shortly after the global spotlight of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Marking the 15th iteration of the event, this tournament brings the flagship competition back to Bangladeshi soil for the first time in eight years.
Before action kicks off on the pitch, organisers have laid out a tight promotional schedule. Local organisers will reveal the official tournament logo in Dhaka on July 25. Just one week later, team delegations assemble in Thimphu, Bhutan, on August 1 for the official draw ceremony to establish group match-ups.
SAFF General Secretary Purushottam Kattel expressed enthusiasm for the host country's passionate fan base, noting that football's rapidly rising footprint in Bangladesh sets the stage for a memorable event. With the administrative calendar moving fast, regional football authorities expect a high-energy return for South Asia's top international crown.
