Japan is preparing a joint bid with six other Asian countries to host the 2046 FIFA World Cup, bringing together nations from East Asia and Southeast Asia, according to the Japan Football Association (JFA).
The proposed bid would include Japan, South Korea and China from East Asia, along with Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore from Southeast Asia.
The JFA said the seven-nation proposal was based on the countries’ existing football infrastructure and stadium capacity.
Among the Southeast Asian candidates, Malaysia’s Bukit Jalil National Stadium can hold nearly 90,000 spectators, while Indonesia has two venues with capacities of more than 80,000 — Gelora Bung Karno Stadium and Jakarta International Stadium.
Thailand’s Rajamangala National Stadium has a capacity of around 70,000, while Singapore’s National Stadium can accommodate about 55,000 fans.
Vietnam was not included in the proposed bid, reportedly due to concerns over sports infrastructure. The country’s My Dinh National Stadium has a capacity of just over 40,000 and has faced criticism in recent years over its ageing condition and outdated design.
The 2046 World Cup is expected to follow an expanded format featuring at least 48 teams, a structure that will require larger stadiums, stronger transport networks and more extensive facilities.
FIFA is expected to begin the selection process for the 2046 host around 2031.
