Saudi organisers have confirmed that the January 2027 Asian Cup will proceed as planned, despite heightened security concerns following recent Houthi attacks on the kingdom.
The Asian Football Confederation’s top official indicated this week that a postponement to 2028 remains an option, but emphasised that there is no immediate pressure to make a decision.
The tournament is slated to commence on 7 January across the Saudi venues of Jeddah, Riyadh and Al Khobar.
In a statement released late Thursday, the local organising committee affirmed: “Preparations remain on schedule for the tournament.
“This work continues in close coordination with the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and other relevant stakeholders.”
Saudi Arabia has faced a series of sustained attacks in recent days amid an intensified conflict with the Iran‑backed Houthi group.
In response, several sporting events—including domestic football matches—have been postponed.
The organising committee for the Asian Cup, the region’s premier football competition, stated its continued commitment to keeping preparations on track and securing the resources needed to deliver a tournament that reflects Saudi Arabia’s ambitions and standards as a host.
“At the same time, it will keep monitoring developments related to the tournament and ensure the appropriate conditions are in place for its successful delivery.”
AFC President Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim al‑Khalifa told reporters on Wednesday that a final decision could be postponed until the end of November.
“We could move back a year to 2028 if we need to,” he added.
“However, we are currently monitoring the situation and everything remains on schedule.”
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