The Saudi organizers of the 2027 AFC Asian Cup announced that the tournament will take place on January 7 in the cities of Jeddah, Riyadh, and Khobar, and preparations are proceeding according to the original schedule. These statements were made following increasing concerns about holding this major football event after recent Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia.
Current progress in preparing for the Cup
The local organizing committee for the AFC Asian Cup announced that all activities are continuing smoothly and are being conducted in close coordination with the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and other relevant stakeholders. The committee emphasized its commitment to creating suitable conditions for hosting an event that meets Saudi standards.
Read more: Delay in the AFC Champions League match due to missile warning in Riyadh
Saudi Arabia has recently been under pressure from ongoing Houthi attacks, leading to delays in the holding of some sporting events, including domestic football competitions. However, the organizing committee for the Cup is striving to maintain the preparation process and secure the necessary resources for the successful hosting of the tournament.
Decision-making about holding on schedule
Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa, President of the AFC, stated that a final decision regarding the holding of this event may be awaited until the end of November. He also added that if necessary, there is a possibility of a one-year delay to 2028, but currently, the situation is being monitored and everything is proceeding as planned.
The local organizing committee has also emphasized its commitment to maintaining the preparations for the Cup and ensuring the provision of suitable conditions for the successful hosting of the tournament. This event is recognized as one of the most prestigious football competitions in the Middle East, and Saudi Arabia, as the host, aims to provide an opportunity that reflects the ambitions and standards of the country in hosting.
Given the current situation, Saudi Arabia is seeking to ensure security and stability for holding this important sporting event. Continuous monitoring of developments and assessing conditions to ensure the successful hosting of the 2027 AFC Asian Cup is among the priorities of the organizing committee.
Read more: Rovman Powell and Shafine Rutherford reprimanded after the second T20I match against India · Houthi attacks on Aramco facilities in Saudi Arabia
