AFC Awards
A star-studded cast will gather at the AFC Awards Bangkok 2026 for the 30th edition of the gala, which returns to the enchanting capital city following its first staging in 2017.
Once again, the Aksra Theatre King Power provides the backdrop for the showpiece occasion that is set to crown winners from across a total of 19 categories, which showcase the most outstanding achievements from a memorable 2025/26 season.
The AFC’s Member Associations (MAs) and Regional Associations (RAs) will be honoured for their unwavering commitment and efforts to develop the game, while the latest recipient of the AFC Diamond of Asia will be revealed during the ceremony.
Culminating in the two headline accolades, the AFC Awards Bangkok 2026 will recognise Alireza Beiranvand, Feras Al Brikan or Salem Al Dawsari as the AFC Player of the Year and Holly McNamara, Kim Kyong Yong or Kim Hye-ri as the AFC Women’s Player of the Year.
Photo courtesy of FA Thailand
The AFC President, Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa, said: “As we commemorate the 30th edition of this prestigious occasion, we can look back upon the remarkable journey that Asian football has undertaken over the past three decades and how that is reflected in the evolution of the AFC Awards.
“The AFC Awards are where we laud the strong foundations upon which Asian football continues to grow. The heights that have been reached by our players, coaches, match officials and other stakeholders are made possible by the vision, commitment and tireless efforts of our MAs and RAs, whose programmes and initiatives consistently elevate the development of the game and deliver on the shared outcomes underlined in the AFC’s Vision and Mission.
“On behalf of the Asian football family, I convey our sincere appreciation to The Football Association of Thailand and the Kingdom of Thailand, whose industry-leading hosting capabilities and expertise are renowned, for their generous hospitality and warm welcome.
“On this special night, I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to all our shortlisted nominees and award recipients. Your feats have undoubtedly inspired the next generation of fans, players and match officials, and at the same time are a powerful reminder of the extraordinary talent and potential that exists across our great Continent.”
Photo: Harun Ozalp/ANADOLU/Anadolu via AFP
The following award categories will be announced at the AFC Awards Bangkok 2026 and presented at an opportune occasion:
AFC Youth Player of the Year (Women)
AFC Youth Player of the Year (Men)
AFC Asian International Player of the Year (Women)
AFC Asian International Player of the Year (Men)
AFC Referees Special Awards
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