Brunei Replaces Bahrain in Thailand’s 2026 King’s Cup

Thailand’s football association named Brunei as Bahrain’s replacement in the King’s Cup 2026.

The tournament is scheduled for November during the FIFA international break in Sisaket, Thailand.

Bahrain withdrew to play a friendly match in China and sent Thailand an apology.

The original lineup was Thailand, Oman, Tajikistan and Bahrain.

Brunei is ranked 196th in the world and did not qualify for the 2026 ASEAN Championship.

Many fans questioned Brunei’s place in the tournament, saying its participation could reduce the event’s prestige.

Some fans also suggested Thailand wanted a weaker opponent after losing recent finals, but that is their opinion, not a stated reason from the football association.

The tournament is still scheduled for November, with Brunei now set to take Bahrain’s place.