The President of the Asian Football Confederation, Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa, announced in a statement issued by the German News Agency (DPA) that Saudi Arabia is fully prepared to host the 2027 Asian Cup Finals, while stressing that all preparations are proceeding according to the approved time plans. The statement came in light of rumors circulating about the possibility of postponing the tournament due to security tensions in the region, as Sheikh Salman confirmed that there is no intention to amend the hosting arrangements at the present time.
Al-Sheikh indicated that the AFC remains in constant communication with the Saudi Football Federation and the local organizing committee for the tournament, and that it is following up on all stages of preparations. He also expressed his happiness with the positive reports received from the efforts made in Saudi Arabia, considering that these reports reflect the amount of work and efforts made by the Saudi authorities, and confirm the Federation’s confidence in their ability to present an exceptional version of the tournament.
Regarding infrastructure and organizational capabilities, the Sheikh stressed that Saudi Arabia has great experience in hosting international sporting events, and that it will provide a distinguished platform for Asian football. He added that the Union's current focus is to follow up on all operational plans to ensure that all preparations are completed on time, and that any future developments will be studied in full coordination with the Saudi authority.
Al-Sheikh indicated that the AFC is monitoring the surrounding circumstances and deals responsibly and flexibly with any possible changes, while stressing that any decision regarding postponing or amending the tournament arrangements will be taken with full cooperation between the two sides. Thus, the statement concludes by affirming the Federation’s confidence in holding the 2027 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia, praising the close cooperation and great efforts made by the concerned authorities to ensure the organization of a tournament worthy of the status of Asian football and the aspirations of its fans.
The 2027 Asian Cup finals will be held in Saudi Arabia from January 7 to February 5, with the participation of 24 Asian teams. The final draw resulted in an all-Arab group, which reflects the mutual support between Arab countries in the field of sports.