The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has postponed the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations? No, the AFC Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia, moving the tournament from its original January 2027 schedule to December 2027 amid security concerns and logistical challenges in the region.
The continental football tournament, which was initially scheduled to hold from January 7 to February 5, 2027, will now take place from December 23, 2027, to January 21, 2028.
The AFC announced the change on Tuesday, November 3, following consultations with the tournament’s Local Organising Committee and the Saudi Arabian Football Federation.
In a statement, the football governing body attributed the decision to exceptional circumstances arising from developments in the region, including travel disruptions and logistical difficulties.
The postponement comes amid rising security concerns following attacks by Yemen’s Houthi movement on Saudi Arabia, which have also affected other sporting activities in the region.
The tournament was initially scheduled to take place across three Saudi Arabian cities: Riyadh, Jeddah and Al Khobar.
The AFC said the revised dates would be submitted to FIFA for approval and pledged to continue working with the organisers and participating football associations to ensure a successful competition.
The 2027 edition will be Saudi Arabia’s first time hosting the AFC Asian Cup, which features 24 national teams competing for the continental title.
