SAFF eyes global expansion with FIFA

The upcoming SAFF Championship in Dhaka is set for a modern facelift, with organisers working to introduce Video Assistant Referees (VAR) for the first time, unveiling a brand-new trophy in October, and exploring plans with FIFA for a future "FIFA SAFF Cup".

South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) General Secretary Purushottam Kattel revealed these updates on Thursday ahead of the flagship regional tournament, scheduled to run in the Bangladeshi capital from 4 to 17 November.

"First time we are introducing VAR in the South Asian region," Kattel said, noting that technical assessments are underway to check if the system can be used for all matches. "That will give the additional kind of value to this competition."

Kattel confirmed that following the logo launch in July, a newly designed championship trophy will be unveiled in October alongside extra fan entertainment and stadium activities.

Looking beyond the November showpiece, SAFF is in talks with world football’s governing body to boost the tournament's global profile. "There is a plan, we are in talk with FIFA also on this thing, but it's not concrete, formalised yet, maybe next championship when you see it could be like that," Kattel stated regarding a proposed "FIFA SAFF Cup".

Addressing logistics, Kattel said the full fixture list is expected next week, while ticket prices and prize money are still being finalised. He emphasised that the Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) will provide vital operational, medical, and security support throughout the event.

Meanwhile, Nepal’s participation remains uncertain due to their current FIFA suspension. SAFF has set a 30 September deadline for the ban to be lifted, which would see Nepal join Group A alongside hosts Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Bhutan.

"If the ban continues, of course they won't play," Kattel affirmed, making it clear that no replacement team will be invited if Nepal miss out, leaving India, Pakistan, and Maldives to contest Group B.