Asian Cup Postponed Amid Regional Conflict

The Asian Football Confederation said on November 3 that the 2027 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia would be delayed nearly a year. The tournament, originally set to begin on January 7, will now run from December 23, 2027, to January 21, 2028, subject to FIFA approval of the new dates.

The AFC said it made the decision after discussions with Saudi organizers, citing regional developments that created significant travel and logistical difficulties. It said the rescheduling was necessary for the teams, officials, spectators and others involved. The decision followed deadly attacks in Saudi Arabia and months of uncertainty over whether the country could host the event safely.

The monthlong competition is scheduled to bring 24 national teams to eight venues in Riyadh, Jeddah and Khobar. Iran is grouped with Syria, China and Kyrgyzstan. Australia, South Korea and Japan are among the other group top seeds.

The change could affect national federations’ plans for coaches whose contracts were tied to the tournament. Australia’s Tony Popovic had chosen a deal ending with the Asian Cup, while South Korea’s interim coach Robert Moreno has a contract through November, with a possible short extension. Japan and Iraq also have coaching arrangements linked to the tournament.

The Asian Cup is the latest major sports event affected by the conflict. Saudi Arabia’s Formula 1 race was canceled this season, Bahrain’s race was moved to Malaysia, and the WTA Finals were shifted from Saudi Arabia to California. FIFA approval is needed to set the dates for clubs to release players for national duty.