Asian Cup 2027: Tournament in Saudi Arabia postponed by almost a year due to 'exceptional circumstances' amid regional conflict

The tournament was due to take place from January 7 to February 5, but Asia's football governing body - the AFC - confirmed that the new dates will be from December 23, 2027 to January 21, 2028.

"Following extensive discussions and close consultation with the Local Organising Committee (LOC) of the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 and the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF), the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has confirmed today that the upcoming edition of Asia's crown jewel, originally to be held from January 7 to February 5, 2027, will now take place from December 23, 2027, to January 21, 2028," read an AFC statement.

"The Organising Committee for AFC Asian Cup approved to reschedule the flagship national team tournament in light of the current exceptional circumstances arising from developments in the region, including substantial logistical complexities and travel disruptions. The new dates of the tournament will be presented to FIFA for approval.

"Exceptional circumstances have been created for the organisation and delivery of the competition as originally scheduled, making the postponement necessary in the interest of all participating teams, officials, spectators and other stakeholders.

"The AFC commends SAFF and the LOC for their commitment to delivering a world-class tournament for the continent’s players and fans.

"The AFC will continue to work closely with the LOC, Participating Member Associations and its valued sponsors and broadcast and commercial partners and all stakeholders to stage a showpiece befitting the stature and operational excellence synonymous with Asia's most prestigious men's national team competition, while minimising the impact of the postponement."

An ongoing conflict between Saudi Arabia and Yemen's Houthis has resulted in deadly missile strikes hitting the host nation, with an attack on Riyadh airport in October killing 13 people and injuring hundreds.

Twenty-four teams had already qualified for the 2027 Asian Cup, including two-time defending champions Qatar and heavyweight nations Japan, South Korea and Australia.

Abdukodir Khusanov of Uzbekistan and Manchester City and Japan internationals Zion Suzuki, Ao Tanaka, Daizen Maeda and Daichi Kamada of Aston Villa, Leeds United, Ipswich Town and Crystal Palace respectively were among the Premier League players who were set to compete next year.

Download the TNT Sports app on iPhone and Android.

Watch and stream the Premier League, men’s and women’s FA Cups, UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League, UEFA Conference League and more live with TNT Sports on HBO Max