International Sports
AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 postponed amid regional disruptions
The competition, originally scheduled for January 7 to February 5, 2027, will now take place from December 23, 2027, to January 21, 2028, subject to approval by FIFA.
The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has postponed the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027, moving the tournament to December 2027 and January 2028 because of regional developments that have caused logistical challenges and travel disruptions.
The competition, originally scheduled for January 7 to February 5, 2027, will now take place from December 23, 2027, to January 21, 2028, subject to approval by FIFA.
The decision followed discussions between the AFC, the tournament’s Local Organising Committee and the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF).
The AFC said exceptional circumstances affecting preparations and the delivery of the tournament had prompted the change, which was made in the interests of participating teams, officials, spectators and other stakeholders.
The governing body did not provide further details about the specific regional disruptions behind the decision.
The AFC thanked Saudi Arabia’s football federation and the organising committee for their continued commitment to hosting the competition.
It also said it would work with participating national associations, sponsors, broadcasters and commercial partners to minimise the impact of the revised schedule.
The tournament will remain in Saudi Arabia, with further updates to be communicated through the AFC’s official channels.