KUALA LUMPUR – The 2027 AFC Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia has been postponed by almost a year, with the continental showpiece now scheduled to take place from December 23, 2027, to January 21, 2028, amid escalating security concerns and travel disruptions in the region.
The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) confirmed the decision today, citing exceptional circumstances arising from recent developments in the region.
The tournament was originally scheduled to run from January 7 to February 5 next year.
In a statement, AFC said its organising committee had approved the revised schedule following extensive discussions and consultations with Saudi officials.
“The organising committee for AFC Asian Cup approved to reschedule the flagship national team tournament in light of the current exceptional circumstances arising from developments in the region,” it said.
The governing body also pointed to substantial logistical challenges and travel disruptions as factors behind the decision.
“The new dates of the tournament will be presented to FIFA for approval,” it added.
The postponement comes amid a series of cancellations and scheduling changes involving major sporting events in Saudi Arabia in recent weeks following Houthi attacks on the country.
Despite growing uncertainty over the tournament’s future, local organisers had insisted last month that preparations remained on schedule.
Riyadh, Jeddah and Al Khobar are the three Saudi cities designated to host the month-long competition.
The AFC said the exceptional circumstances had made it increasingly difficult to organise and deliver the tournament as originally planned.
It added that the decision was necessary in the interests of all participating teams, officials, spectators and other stakeholders. – November 3, 2026