The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has postponed the 2027 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia from January to December 2027, citing exceptional circumstances in the region.
The continental football tournament, originally scheduled to run from 7 January to 5 February next year, is now expected to take place from December next year to 21 January 2028.
The AFC announced the decision in a statement, saying the postponement follows developments in the region, logistical challenges and travel disruptions.
“The organising committee for AFC Asian Cup approved rescheduling the flagship national team tournament in light of the current exceptional circumstances arising from developments in the region,” the governing body said.
It added that the revised tournament dates would be presented to FIFA for approval.
The decision follows a series of cancellations and postponements of major sporting events in Saudi Arabia in recent weeks amid Houthi attacks on the country.
The AFC said the decision followed “extensive discussions and close consultation” with Saudi officials.
“Exceptional circumstances have been created for the organisation and delivery of the competition as originally scheduled, making the postponement necessary in the interest of all participating teams, officials, spectators and other stakeholders,” it said.
The tournament is expected to take place across three Saudi cities: Riyadh, Jeddah and Al Khobar.
The decision comes after local organisers insisted last month that preparations remained on schedule despite growing concerns over the competition.
