Postponing the Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia and revealing the new tournament date

The Asian Football Confederation announced the postponement of the Asian Cup, which was scheduled to be held in Saudi Arabia on January 7, 2027, to December 2027 due to the current circumstances in the region, according to a statement issued on Tuesday.

The AFC statement said: “Following extensive discussions and close consultations with the local organizing committee for the 2027 Saudi Asian Cup and the Saudi Football Federation, the AFC confirmed today that the next edition of the jewel of the continent’s championships, which was originally scheduled to be held during the period from January 7 to February 5, 2027, will now be held during the period from December 23, 2027 to January 21, 2028.”

The AFC added: “The Asian Cup Organizing Committee of the Asian Football Confederation has agreed to reschedule the most prominent tournament for national teams, in light of the current circumstances and developments taking place in the region, and the resulting considerations related to travel arrangements and logistical aspects. The new dates for the tournament will be submitted to FIFA for approval.”

The AFC continued: “This decision comes as a result of the unusual circumstances that prevent the tournament from being organized and held according to the original schedule, which made its postponement necessary in the interest of all participating teams, officials, fans and other concerned parties.”

The AFC concluded by saying: “The AFC commends the commitment of the Saudi Football Federation and the Local Organizing Committee to provide a world-class tournament for the continent’s players and fans. The AFC will continue to work closely with the Local Organizing Committee, the participating national member federations, its esteemed sponsors, its broadcasting partners, commercial partners and all concerned parties, in order to organize an exceptional tournament worthy of the status of the most prestigious men’s national team competition in Asia, and associated operational excellence, while reducing the impact of postponement to the lowest possible level.”

Saudi Arabia is subject to attacks from the Iranian-backed Houthi group in Yemen, in light of the escalation of clashes in recent weeks between the forces of the internationally recognized Yemeni government supported by Saudi Arabia and the Houthis, which led to the suspension of flights at several major airports in the Kingdom.