The AFC U23 Asian Cup will take place in Riyadh and Jeddah from January 6 to 24, 2026, with media accreditation now open for international and local journalists.
Kuala Lumpur | By Sayer Zaland
The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has opened the accreditation window for media professionals wishing to cover the AFC U23 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026, which will be held from January 6 to 24, 2026, in Riyadh and Jeddah.
According to the AFC Media & Broadcast Operations Team, applications must be submitted through the AFC Media Channel before the deadline of November 17, 2025, for foreign media and November 21, 2025, for local media. Late applications will only be considered on a best-effort basis.
Applicants are required to upload a valid passport copy (at least six months’ validity) in PDF or JPEG format, along with a recent personal photo (800×800 pixels, white background, JPEG format). Accreditation is open to Written/Digital Press (PRE), Photographers (PHO), and Non-Rights Holders (NRH).
The AFC emphasized that all travel and accommodation arrangements must be made independently by applicants. Visa issuance will be managed by the Local Organizing Committee, and accreditation approval does not guarantee entry into Saudi Arabia. Only approved applicants will be contacted with further visa details.
Media personnel can stay updated with official competition information and advisories via the AFC Media & Broadcast Operations WhatsApp Channel and the AFC’s official platforms.
The AFC U23 Asian Cup, hosted by Saudi Arabia for the first time, will feature Asia’s top emerging football talents competing for continental honors and qualification to the 2028 Olympic Games.
