CORNERFLICK
The Asian Football Confederation has announced a change to the dates of the 2027 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia, with the tournament now scheduled for 23 December 2027 to 21 January 2028.
Why the dates changed
The AFC said its organising committee took the decision at a meeting on 3 November, with final approval due at the executive committee meeting on 18 November 2026.
In its statement, the confederation said it had been monitoring regional developments with the local organising committee and relevant authorities. It cited operational concerns, uncertainty, travel complications for teams and staff, and possible disruption to journeys as reasons for the change.
The AFC also said it had weighed other options for keeping the competition on its previous schedule. It said player welfare, travel feasibility, commercial and broadcast commitments, and conditions for teams, partners, staff and international supporters all remained priorities.
What happens next
The confederation said it would share further updates on the tournament's running in due course with member associations.