Asian Champions League Revamp Aims to Boost Investment and Quality

The revamped Asian Champions League Elite, featuring 24 top-tier teams, aims to attract fresh investments and enhance the quality of football in the region. The AFC has introduced a new format, trophy, and increased prize money to entice investors and promote competitive matches.

The revamped Asian Champions League Elite is set to play a critical role in attracting new investment into the continent's clubs, according to the Asian Football Confederation (AFC)'s seniormost official. The governing body aims to revitalise the sport in the region.

Starting on Monday, the top tier of the restructured competition will include 24 teams, down from 40. The league features champions from Japan, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, and China, as well as titleholders Al-Ain from the United Arab Emirates. The new format introduces a redesigned trophy, logo, and significantly increased prize money, with the new champions potentially earning up to $12 million by the final on May 4.

Windsor John, the general secretary of the Asian Football Confederation, told Reuters the overhaul was focused on quality over quantity. "We've concentrated on quality because we wanted Asian and foreign investors to invest in Asian clubs," John said, explaining that the competition's reconfiguration includes the introduction of the Swiss League system and sees clubs divided into east and west Asia leagues, each featuring 12 teams.

(With inputs from agencies.)