The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has announced a long-term extension of its media partnership with Malaysia’s leading content and entertainment provider, Astro, reinforcing the broadcaster’s position as the home of Asian football for fans across the country.
The renewed agreement builds on the success of a three-year collaboration that began in 2023 and covered major AFC competitions, including the AFC Asian Qualifiers – Road to 26, national team tournaments and the confederation’s premier club competitions.
Under the new deal, Astro will continue to serve as the AFC’s Official Media Partner in Malaysia, delivering comprehensive coverage of Asia’s biggest football events across multiple platforms.
A key highlight of the renewed partnership is Astro’s acquisition of exclusive broadcasting rights for the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027, ensuring Malaysian fans will have full access to Asia’s flagship international tournament.
The agreement also covers a wide range of AFC competitions across men’s, women’s and youth football, including the final qualifying stages for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games Women’s Football Tournament.
In addition, Astro has retained broadcasting rights for all matches in the AFC Champions League Elite (ACLE), AFC Champions League Two (ACL2) and the AFC Women’s Champions League through the end of the 2028/29 season.
The deal guarantees uninterrupted access to Asia’s most prestigious football competitions, from international tournaments to elite club championships, further strengthening the connection between Malaysian supporters and the continent’s top football stars.
AFC General Secretary Datuk Seri Windsor John welcomed the extension, highlighting Astro’s role in expanding the reach and popularity of Asian football in Malaysia.
“Astro has been an exceptional partner in growing the influence of Asian football in Malaysia. We are confident they will continue delivering engaging and high-quality viewing experiences across multiple platforms for the continent’s major competitions.
“This long-term extension reflects our shared vision of bringing world-class AFC competitions closer to fans. We look forward to working closely with Astro to further strengthen passion for football and showcase the extraordinary talent across Asia.”
Astro Head of Sports Nicholas John described the new agreement as a significant milestone in the broadcaster’s commitment to Malaysian football fans.
“This latest partnership with the AFC demonstrates Astro’s ongoing commitment to bringing the best of Asian football to audiences in Malaysia.
“From the AFC Asian Cup to the continent’s premier club competitions, we are proud to deliver every major moment live across our platforms, including Astro Arena, Astro Football, Astro GO, NJOI and Sooka.
“As viewing habits continue to evolve, our focus remains on innovation, making sports broadcasting more accessible, immersive and engaging. This partnership not only strengthens our premium sports portfolio but also reinforces Astro’s position as the Home of Sports in Malaysia.”
The renewed partnership comes at a crucial period for Asian football, with growing interest in AFC competitions and increasing participation from Southeast Asian clubs and national teams on the continental stage.
For Malaysian football supporters, the agreement ensures continued access to major AFC events, including the AFC Asian Cup 2027, the AFC Champions League Elite, and future qualification campaigns, providing extensive coverage of both regional and continental football over the next several years.
With the partnership now secured through 2029, Astro and the AFC are set to continue bringing the biggest moments in Asian football to millions of viewers across Malaysia, further enhancing the sport’s visibility and growth throughout the region.
Credit Photo : Sorawit/SNE Sports
