The Asian Cup is the main national football competition of the Asian nations. It is held every four years since 1956. A qualifying tournament is held to determine the participating nations. While only four countries were admitted to the first Asian Cup in 1956, the field of participants now comprises sixteen nations.

Winners

  • 2000 Japan
  • 1996 Saudi Arabia
  • 1992 Japan
  • 1988 Saudi Arabia
  • 1984 Saudi Arabia
  • 1980 Kuwait
  • 1976 Iran
  • 1972 Iran
  • 1968 Iran
  • 1964 Israel
  • 1960 South Korea
  • 1956 South Korea

Hosts

  • 2004 China
  • 2000 Lebanon
  • 1996 United Arab Emirates
  • 1992 Japan
  • 1988 Qatar
  • 1984 Singapore
  • 1980 Kuwait
  • 1976 Iran
  • 1972 Thailand
  • 1968 Iran
  • 1964 Israel
  • 1960 South Korea
  • 1956 Hong Kong