Saudi Arabia’s 2027 Asian Cup may be delayed until 2028 as the AFC monitors security after Houthi attacks on the kingdom. The decision could be taken by the end of November.
01Summary
- 01AFC president Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa said the tournament could be moved back a year to 2028 if needed.
- 02The 2027 Asian Cup is due to start on January 7 in Jeddah, Riyadh and al-Khobar.
- 03Saudi Arabia has faced sustained attacks in recent days, including a missile intercepted near Riyadh on Monday.
- 04Three Saudi domestic football matches, including one involving Al-Nassr, were postponed this week.
- 05Australia and South Korean players' representatives have both raised concerns about safety at the tournament.
02Why it matters
A delay would affect one of Asia’s biggest football tournaments and could disrupt teams, fans and broadcasters across the region. The security situation in Saudi Arabia is also already affecting other sporting events.
Answers are generated by AI from the story summary; they are not investment, health or legal advice.





