AFC Delays 2027 Asian Cup to December

The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) announced on 3 November 2026 that the 2027 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia would be postponed. The tournament’s original dates, 7 January to 5 February 2027, have been shifted to 23 December 2027 to 21 January 2028.

Revised schedule and reasons

The new dates remain subject to approval by the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA). The 24-team tournament is still planned for venues in Riyadh, Jeddah and Khobar. The AFC cited exceptional regional circumstances, logistical complexities, travel disruption and security concerns. The decision followed October 2026 missile attacks on Riyadh’s international airport, claimed by Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi movement and resulting in casualties.

The Asian Cup is also a preparatory event for Saudi Arabia ahead of its hosting of the 2034 FIFA World Cup.

Other sporting-event changes

Regional disruptions have also affected other competitions. The 2026 Saudi Formula 1 Grand Prix was cancelled, while the Bahrain Grand Prix was moved to Malaysia. The 2026 WTA Finals shifted from Saudi Arabia to Indian Wells, California, and the 2027 Dakar Rally was relocated from Saudi Arabia to Portugal and Morocco.

Important Facts for Exams

• Third-place progression: The 2027 AFC Asian Cup knockout stage is to include the four best third-placed teams from six groups, alongside all group winners and runners-up.
• Shared World Cup qualifying: The first two Asian Cup qualifying rounds also counted towards 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification; hosts Saudi Arabia participated despite automatic Asian Cup entry.
• Calendar transition: The 2027 edition is scheduled to be the last held in an odd-numbered year, with the Asian Cup switching back to even-numbered years from 2032.