Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia postponed to December over regional security

The new dates for the tournament are 23 December 2027 to 21 January 2028. The AFC cited substantial logistical complexities and travel disruptions as the reasons for the change.

The decision came after extensive discussions and close consultation between Saudi officials and the AFC. The governing body said exceptional circumstances had been created for the organisation of the competition as originally scheduled.

The postponement is a result of escalating security concerns in the region. Yemen's Houthis have targeted Saudi infrastructure, including airports, since the war in Yemen resumed in July following a years-long truce.

Wider impact on sports

The postponement is part of a broader trend of sporting events being cancelled or moved out of Saudi Arabia. The 2027 Dakar Rally was moved out of the country last month.

An exhibition tennis tournament featuring Novak Đoković, Carlos Alcaraz and Alexander Zverev was also postponed. The WTA Finals, which was scheduled to be held in Riyadh, will instead take place at Indian Wells in the United States.

Domestic football matches and Asian Champions League games have also been impacted by the security situation. The Saudi cities of Jeddah, Riyadh and Al Khobar were set to stage the month-long competition.

Preparations continue

Local organisers insisted last month that the Asian Cup was 'on schedule', despite growing fears for the tournament's fate. The organisation representing South Korean players was among those that had expressed severe reservations about the competition going ahead early next year.

Yasser al-Misehal vowed that Saudi Arabia was 'fully ready' and working closely with the AFC and all partners to ensure the tournament runs smoothly. The new dates of the tournament will be presented to FIFA for approval.

Lee Keun-ho added that 'no tournament's value can take precedence over the lives and safety of players and football fans'.