[Official] Asian Cup abruptly postponed; confirmed to be held in December instead of January next year

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The 2027 Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Asian Cup, originally scheduled for Saudi Arabia in January next year, has ultimately been postponed.

On the 3rd (Korean time), the AFC announced, "After extensive discussions and close consultations with the Organizing Committee and the Saudi Arabian Football Federation, it has been decided to hold the tournament, which was scheduled from January 7 to February 5 next year, from December 23, 2027, to January 21, 2028."

The AFC stated, "Considering the political situation within Saudi Arabia, we have approved the change in the tournament schedule and will submit the new schedule to the International Football Federation (FIFA) for approval," adding, "We will work closely with all stakeholders to minimize the impact of the postponement and to maintain a status befitting Asia's most prestigious tournament."

Initially, the 2027 Asian Cup was scheduled to be held in three Saudi cities—Riyadh, Jeddah, and Al Qobair—from January next year. The schedule involves 24 participating teams playing a total of 51 matches. The AFC had already confirmed and announced details such as match times and host stadiums last month, but concerns about the feasibility of holding the tournament normally have grown due to recent instability in the Middle East political situation.

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*This content was translated by AI.View Original