Australia no more in the running for hosting the 2023 afc Asian Cup.

In a surprise move, Australia withdrew from the contention to bid to host the 2023 Asian Cup, but has massive interest in holding the Women’s tournament in 2026. It issued a statement saying, “Football Australia today confirmed that it will not proceed with submitting a formal bid to host the AFC Asian Cup 2023”. It is an Asian football competition that takes place every four years and is that Asia’s premier football tournament. It is the same as the Euros of football. Earlier, another strong favourite China pulled out because of its pursuit of a Zero-Covid policy, which will make hosting any major sport event a major challenge.

The 2019 AFC Asian Cup which was the 17th edition was held in the United Arab Emirates and Qatar emerged as the champions by defeating Japan in the final. India started the tournament well with a 4-1 victory over Thailand but unfortunately could not carry it forward and were knocked out in the group stage.