Isophoric News · Tuesday, November 3, 2026
AFC moves the 2027 Asian Cup to 23 December 2027 through 21 January 2028
The Asian Football Confederation said on Tuesday that the 2027 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia, scheduled for 7 January to 5 February 2027, will instead be played from 23 December 2027 to 21 January 2028. The AFC's organizing committee cited "exceptional circumstances arising from developments in the region," including logistical complexities and travel disruptions, the confederation said. The new dates will be presented to FIFA for approval. The decision followed consultation with the tournament's local organizing committee and the Saudi Arabian Football Federation, the AFC said. Riyadh is to host 30 of the tournament's 51 matches, including the final at King Fahd Sports City Stadium, ESPN reported. The new dates fall in one of the busiest periods of the European club season, the Guardian reported, and the delay could affect Australia coach Tony Popovic, whose contract had been due to run out after the January tournament.
