Outlining the scenario if the AFC increases ACL Elite slots from 24 to 32 teams, Thai clubs could gain additional places in the Asian club competition.
On 21 Apr 2026 GMT+7, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) plans to expand the AFC Champions League Elite for the 2026/27 season from 24 to 32 teams, a change that will significantly affect each nation’s slot allocation.
Previously, the Thai League earned more slots after surpassing the Chinese league coefficient, granting a 2+1 ACL Elite allocation (two teams directly into the league phase and one team in playoffs against a Chinese Super League representative), while ACL Two remained 1+0, with one team directly in the group stage.
However, if the expansion to 32 teams occurs, the Thai League's allocation will immediately adjust to 3+0, meaning three Thai clubs automatically qualify for the ACL Elite league phase without playoffs. The ACL Two allocation remains at one slot.
Allocation criteria will grant ACL Elite spots to the Thai League champion, the Chang FA Cup winner, and the league runner-up, while the third-place league team qualifies for ACL Two. If the league champion and FA Cup winner are the same, the spot passes down to the fourth-place team.
Currently, Buriram United has secured the Thai League title and an ACL Elite spot, and remains in contention for the Chang FA Cup, with a chance to achieve a domestic double.
Meanwhile, the remaining slots are fiercely contested by four teams: Port FC, Ratchaburi FC, True Bangkok United, and BG Pathum United, all battling intensely for the last three spots in the final stretch of the season.