Thailand Awaits Confirmations for King's Cup After Bahrain Withdrawal
Bahrain has pulled out of the 52nd King's Cup, leaving Thailand, Tajikistan and Oman as the only confirmed teams for the November tournament in Sisaket. The Thai Football Association is still waiting for responses from other invited nations, mainly from the Middle East, and may turn to ASEAN sides if needed. A press conference and draw are set for 19 October to finalize the lineup.
The 52nd King's Cup is facing uncertainty day by day over whether it will secure the planned four‑team lineup, as invitations sent to various nations have yet to draw replies. Bahrain's sudden withdrawal — citing internal issues and poor performance that prompted a coaching change — has left only Tajikistan, Thailand and Oman confirmed. The Thai Football Association has reiterated its intention to keep the original four‑team format and has already mailed invitations, primarily to Middle Eastern countries without November FIFA‑day commitments. However, as of now no acceptances have been received for the November event in Sisaket, with some nations possibly needing more time to decide; the press conference and first‑round draw are scheduled for 19 October, leaving a window for replies, though officials acknowledge they may ultimately invite ASEAN sides if the current invitations go unanswered.
