Qatar and Saudi Arabia appointed as hosts for 2026 World Cup Qualifiers

According to AFC’s official announcement, Qatar and Saudi Arabia have been selected as hosts for the Fourth Round of 2026 World Cup Qualifiers Asia Zone — scheduled to take place this October.

This decision has sparked debate among football observers — considering both host nations will also compete as participants in this round.

Teams competing in the Fourth Round include:
* Iraq
* Oman
* Qatar
* Indonesia National Team
* United Arab Emirates
* Saudi Arabia

“The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has confirmed the Qatar Football Association and Saudi Arabian Football Federation as Host Member Associations for the upcoming AFC Asian Qualifiers, Road to 26 Playoffs,” states AFC’s official announcement.