Asian Football Confederation, Saudi Arabia and 24 participating national teams
3 November 2026
The AFC has officially postponed the 2027 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia because of regional security concerns and travel disruptions. The tournament will now begin on 23 December 2027 and conclude on 21 January 2028.
The competition was originally scheduled for 7 January to 5 February 2027. The AFC organising committee approved the revised dates following attacks and logistical difficulties in the region, with FIFA approval still required. The postponement also means several European clubs will avoid losing Asian internationals during the originally scheduled January tournament.
Why It Matters
The postponement changes national-team preparations and reduces immediate January disruption for clubs.