Asian Cup Rescheduled to December 2027

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC), after consultations with the Saudi Arabian Football Federation and the local organizing committee for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia, announced the rescheduling of the next edition of the AFC Asian Cup. Originally scheduled to take place from January 7 to February 5, 2027, the tournament will now be held from December 23, 2027, to January 21, 2028, in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

In a statement issued today, the AFC explained that “the decision followed extensive discussions, in light of current developments and related logistical considerations,” adding that “the decision reflects a shared commitment to providing optimal conditions for hosting the tournament, ensuring an exceptional experience for the participating national teams, fans, and all stakeholders.”

Yasser bin Hassan Al-Masahl, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Local Organizing Committee for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia, told the Saudi Press Agency that “the Kingdom is fully prepared to host the AFC Asian Cup. Our preparations to welcome the continent’s national teams and fans in January were completed in accordance with approved plans, and we will continue working with the same momentum toward the new tournament dates in December 2027.”

He added: “Rescheduling means shifting the tournament to its new dates, while our plans and preparations will proceed as approved. We are working closely with the Asian Football Confederation and all partners to ensure a comprehensive, high-level organizational experience and to deliver an exceptional edition befitting the Kingdom’s stature and the prestige of the AFC Asian Cup.”