The vibrant ceremony brought together key figures from across the football community, including Chief Operating Officer of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™ Sarah Walsh, captain of the First Matildas Pat O’Connor, and Philippines Head Coach Mark Torcaso.

Also joining the celebrations was Naara the fire horse, the first-ever official mascot of the tournament, who delighted hundreds of fans at the beachfront in the midst of cultural performances, music, food, and a host of interactive activities, offering a glimpse of the energy, diversity and excitement that will define the AFC Women’s Asian Cup™ when it kicks off next month.

Following its showcase in Perth, the coveted trophy will travel east to Sydney, where it will be hosted at the iconic Admiralty House, before heading north to Queensland with stops at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, Snapper Rocks, and Queen Street Mall.

 

The journey will then return to New South Wales for more memorable experiences, including a ride on the Manly Ferry, visits to the Blue Mountains and Maroubra Beach, before making its way back to Western Australia.

After stops in Busselton, Margaret River, and Rottnest Island, the trophy will return to Perth ahead of the opening match between Australia and the Philippines on March 1 at the iconic 60,000-capacity Perth Stadium, where a spectacular opening ceremony will feature KPop Dream Hunters’ Audrey Nuna.

AFC General Secretary Datuk Seri Windsor John said: “With Australia among the global leaders in championing women’s football, the Trophy Road Trip reflects not only the prestige of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup™, but also our commitment to bringing the game closer to communities, inspiring the next generation, and celebrating the diversity and unity of our Confederation.

 

“We look forward to welcoming the world to Australia for a landmark edition of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup™, showcasing Asia’s best teams, outstanding talent, and the continued growth of the women’s game.”

 

Chief Operating Officer of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026™, Sarah Walsh, said: “This moment captures exactly what this tournament is about — bringing communities together, celebrating our diversity and uniting the nation through the power of women’s football.

 

“With one month to go, the energy and momentum are building rapidly towards a truly landmark opening night in Perth, and the Trophy Road Trip gives fans across the country the opportunity to be part of that journey.

 

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