Asian Football Cup Postponed as Middle East Conflict Disrupts International Sport

2026, November 3

Saudi Arabia / Asia

The Asian Football Confederation postponed the 2027 AFC Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia because of security concerns, travel disruptions and logistical difficulties caused by the escalating Middle East conflict. The 24-team tournament, originally scheduled for January 2027, will now take place from 23 December 2027 to 21 January 2028, subject to approval from FIFA. Matches are scheduled across eight venues in Riyadh, Jeddah and Khobar.

The postponement represents a major disruption to the international football calendar and affects preparations for national teams including Australia, Japan and South Korea. Saudi Arabia had previously maintained that the competition would proceed as planned despite regional instability. The decision follows other sporting disruptions in the region, including the cancellation or relocation of major motorsport and tennis events.