Overview

• India will host one of seven AFC U-17 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026 qualifying groups at Ahmedabad’s Arena from November 22–30.
• The official draw on August 7 will allocate 38 teams into seven groups drawn from six seeded pots plus a separate Hosts Pot for each venue.
• Group winners will qualify for the continental finals in Saudi Arabia and join nine directly qualified sides at the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025.
• A dedicated Hosts Pot prevents India from facing China PR, Vietnam, Thailand, Myanmar, the Kyrgyz Republic or Jordan in its group.
• AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey and Gujarat Sports Minister Harsh Sanghavi celebrated the decision as a boost for national pride and regional football growth.