Japan’s football chief has questioned whether Saudi Arabia can host the 2027 Asian Cup on schedule, as security concerns and disruptions to other events complicate preparations.
Reuters reported that sporting disruptions came amid escalating attacks by Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthis. Earlier this month, the Asian Tour put the Saudi International on hold without setting a return date, and cycling’s Urban World Championships were called off after an attack at Riyadh’s international airport. The attack left at least 12 dead and more than 300 injured.
The tennis exhibition Six Kings Slam moved from its October slot in Riyadh to December. FIFA pushed its FIFAe Finals 2026 competition in Jeddah back without naming a replacement date, Reuters also reported.
Reuters said the Saudi government has directed significant sports investment through the Public Investment Fund. The outlet placed the Asian Cup within Saudi Arabia’s buildup to hosting the 2034 FIFA World Cup, describing it as a preliminary test.
At an extraordinary congress of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) in Tokyo on Friday, Japan Football Association President Tsuneyasu Miyamoto said he did not think it would be easy to hold the tournament in Saudi Arabia as scheduled, Reuters reported. Miyamoto said Saudi representatives had told him that protecting players, fans and other attendees was their main concern. He said they planned to consult with the AFC before deciding whether the competition could proceed, and that the process would take time.
Last week, Asian football chief Salman bin Ibrahim Al-Khalifa said a move to 2028 remained possible if needed. The local organizing committee later said site preparation and operational arrangements remained on the approved timeline. Its update covered venue readiness, event infrastructure and logistical support. The committee added that it would keep reviewing the situation while working to preserve the conditions needed to stage the event.
The tournament remains scheduled for Jan. 7 to Feb. 5, 2027.
