2027 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia postponed by nearly a year

The 2027 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia has been pushed back by nearly a year following regional developments that have disrupted travel and created logistical challenges, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) announced on Tuesday.

The tournament will now be held from December 23, 2027, to January 21, 2028, instead of its original schedule of January 7 to February 5, 2027.

The AFC said its Asian Cup Organizing Committee approved the revised dates after discussions with the tournament’s Local Organizing Committee and the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF). It cited “exceptional circumstances” arising from developments in the region, which had complicated preparations for the event.

The confederation said the postponement was aimed at protecting the interests of participating teams, officials, spectators and other stakeholders. The new schedule will be submitted to FIFA for approval.

It also praised Saudi football authorities for their commitment to hosting a world-class competition, adding that it would work with participating associations, sponsors, broadcasters and other partners to reduce the impact of the delay.

Saudi Arabia will host the Asian Cup for the first time. The tournament will feature 24 national teams competing for the continent’s top international football title.