Headline: 2027 Asian Cup Postponed Nearly a Year Due to Security Concerns in Saudi Arabia
The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has announced that the 2027 Asian Cup will be delayed by almost a year following recent attacks in host nation Saudi Arabia. Originally scheduled to begin on January 7, the tournament has been rescheduled because of “exceptional circumstances,” according to the AFC.
In October, a strike at Riyadh’s international airport resulted in at least 12 fatalities and over 300 injuries; the Iran-aligned Houthi movement from Yemen claimed responsibility for the attack. The AFC has indicated that the 24-team tournament is now set to take place from December 23, 2027, to January 21, 2028.
“The new dates of the tournament will be presented to FIFA for approval,” stated the AFC. “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.”
The delay will allow several Premier League players, including Japan’s Zion Suzuki of Aston Villa, Uzbekistan’s Abdukodir Khusanov from Manchester City, and Australia’s Lucas Herrington of Hull City, to remain with their clubs for the current season instead of departing mid-season for the tournament.
Moreover, disruptions in travel and security concerns have affected other sporting events in Saudi Arabia. The Six Kings Slam exhibition tennis tournament has been moved from October to December. Despite these challenges, some sporting events continue, as seen with Saul “Canelo” Alvarez’s recent victory over Christian Mbilli in Riyadh on Saturday.
