Football at the 2006 Asian Games was held in Doha, Qatar from 18 November to 15 December 2006.

[2] Later India also announced their retirement, however they remained in the tournament on a "no cost to government basis".

[4][5] However, FIFA lifted the suspension on Iran under-23 team on 26 November 2006 so they returned to the original Group D stage.

The draw ceremony for the team sports was held on 7 September 2006 at Doha.

Scholars suggest that the 2006 Asian Games had long-term consequences for Qatar by boosting its tourist economy, aiding in economic diversification away from oil, and encouraging infrastructural development, while anticipating Qatar's bid for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.