AFC postpones 2027 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia by nearly a year
Baku, November 3, AZERTAC
The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) on Tuesday postponed the 2027 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia by nearly a year amid security concerns and travel disruptions linked to regional tensions, Anadolu Agency reported.
The 24-team tournament, originally scheduled for Jan. 7-Feb. 5, 2027, will now be held from Dec. 23, 2027 to Jan. 21, 2028, subject to FIFA approval.
The AFC in a statement said the decision was taken following consultations with Saudi organizers and in light of "current exceptional circumstances arising from developments in the region," as well as logistical and travel challenges affecting participating teams, officials and supporters.
The move follows recent Houthi attacks targeting Saudi Arabia, which have raised concerns over the staging of major sporting events in the kingdom.
AFC President Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa had said in October that the tournament could be pushed back if necessary, while organizers at the time maintained preparations were continuing according to schedule.
The AFC had as recently as Oct. 26 finalized kickoff times and venues for the tournament.
Saudi Arabia was due to open the competition against Palestine at King Fahd Sports City Stadium in Riyadh.
The tournament will mark Saudi Arabia’s first time hosting the Asian Cup, the continent’s premier men’s international football competition.
Matches are planned across Riyadh, Jeddah and Al Khobar.
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