AIFF have not expressed interest in India taking over as hosts of the 2023 Asian Cup | OneFootball

India reportedly have not expressed any interest in stepping up as the hosts of the 2023 Asian Cup following China's withdrawal as host of the tournament due to the COVID-19 situation in the country.

The Asian Cup which is held every four years was scheduled to take place across China from June 16 to July 16 next year, with the Chinese Football Association (CFA) admitted that it would not be possible for them to host the tournament.

"The Asian Football Confederation has been officially informed by the CFA (Chinese Football Association) that it would not be able to host the AFC Asian Cup 2023. The AFC acknowledges the exceptional circumstances caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to the relinquishment by China PR of its hosting rights." the Asian Football Confederation said in a statement.

The AFC committee had reiterated that they would name a new host in due course, but nothing has been communicated to the AFC member nations so far and now Reuters reports that India has not expressed interest in stepping up - with All India Football Federation (AIFF) general secretary, Kushal Das confirming that they are currently focusing on bidding for the 2027 edition, having held the 2022 women's Asian Cup earlier this year.

Apart from India, the likes of Qatar, Iran and Saudi Arabia have expressed an interest in or submitted bids for hosting rights of the 2027 Asian Cup.