2023 Asian Cup: First Time Held At The World Cup Venue

Lusail Stadium during the opening match of the 2023 Asian Cup between Qatar vs Lebanon (doc. AFC) hosts.

JAKARTA - The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) appreciates the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) and the Qatar Football Federation (QFA) which have hosted the best Asian Cup in the history of the tournament.

In addition, since the first Asian Cup was held in 1956, it has never used a World Cup venue.

The 2023 Asian Cup will be the first event using the former 2022 World Cup stadiums which will also be held in Qatar.

"This is the first Asian Cup to be held at the World Cup venue. Indefinitely connectedness as well as world-class infrastructure in Qatar will ensure that we will enjoy the most accessible Asian Cup edition."

"We must praise the 2023 Asian Cup LOC and Qatari authorities for their perfect host abilities."

"Since you landed in Qatar, the excitement has been clear and most of it is a tribute to our extraordinary hosts," said Mariano V. Araneta Jr. Chair of the AFC Asian Cup Organizing Committee (OCAC).

OCAC as the AFC representative further saw Qatar more than ready to hold the 2023 Asian Cup.

All supporting facilities for the 2023 Asian Cup operations are running well, not only for participants, but also for spectators.

As a result, the 2023 Asian Cup is predicted to present an unprecedented experience of everyone involved.

"From urban planning across Doha to top-level facilities and hospitality of the people of Qatar, I am sure this competition will match the slogan 'Hayya Asia'. Raise the Asian football community in an unprecedented way."

"It is extraordinary what we can achieve in just 14 months since the granting of the right to host the 2023 Asian Cup to Qatar."

"Thanks to the joint efforts and close coordination between LOC and AFC, we are now in the best position to provide optimal conditions for players, teams and officials to showcase their indisputable talents."

"Qatar is ready, Asia is ready. Now the wait is finally over. We can all look forward to exciting actions for 30 days that will strengthen the increase in Asian football standards," said Mariano again.

Apart from that, OCAC highlighted the Lusail Stadium which will be used for the 2023 Asian Cup final match on February 10, 2024.

The stadium, which is also used as the opening ceremony plus the opening match between Qatar vs Lebanon hosts, has its own charm.

"There are only a few venues in the world of football that are iconic at the Lusail Stadium. I am sure that the players, teams and fans will witness extraordinary celebrations that will determine the atmosphere throughout the tournament," said Mariano.