The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has officially announced that the AFC Asian Cup 2027, originally scheduled to take place in Saudi Arabia from January 7 to February 5, 2027, will be postponed to run from December 23, 2027 to January 21, 2028.
[Official Announcement]
The AFC officially announced that following extensive discussions and close consultation with the AFC Asian Cup 2027 Local Organising Committee (LOC) and the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF), the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027, initially scheduled to be held from January 7 to February 5, 2027, has been rescheduled to take place from December 23, 2027 to January 21, 2028.
In light of the exceptional circumstances currently prevailing in the region, the LOC has been granted approval to readjust the tournament schedule. Considering the complexities of tournament preparations and related transportation matters, the new dates will be submitted to FIFA for approval.
The AFC noted that these unique circumstances present difficulties for tournament organization and operations during the original dates, making the postponement necessary in the best interests of all participating teams, officials, spectators, and other stakeholders.
The AFC commended the commitment of the SAFF and the LOC to deliver a world-class tournament for Asian players and fans. The AFC will continue to work closely with the LOC, Participating Member Associations (PMAs), commercial partners, broadcast sponsors, and all stakeholders to host an event befitting the stature and operational excellence of Asia's flagship men's national team competition, while minimizing any impact resulting from the postponement.