Saudi Arabia confirms January start for Asian Cup 2027 despite attacks
Summary
Saudi Arabia’s organizers say the 2027 Asian Cup will begin on January 7 and run through February 5, despite security concerns linked to attacks and regional unrest. The AFC schedule sets Riyadh as the site of the opening match and final, while several participating football federations have questioned whether the tournament can safely go ahead.Key Facts
- The tournament will run from January 7 to February 5, 2027.
- Saudi Arabia will host 51 matches at eight venues in Riyadh, Jeddah and Al-Khobar.
- Saudi Arabia will face Palestine in the opening match in Riyadh.
- The final is scheduled for Riyadh’s 72,000-seat King Fahd Sports City Stadium.
- The AFC said a postponement until 2028 could be possible if needed, but the local organizing committee says it is keeping the original schedule.
- Japan Football Association President Tsuneyasu Miyamoto said he had concerns about the security situation and hosting the tournament as planned.
- The article reports that Houthi missile and drone attacks have prompted cancellations or postponements of several major sporting events in Saudi Arabia.
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